Fall 2011 - Cal U Review

2011

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CREVIEW ALU

LEADERS FOR LIFE Cal U expands its commitment to leadership development

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CALU REVIEW

The California University of Pennsylvania Magazine CAL U REVIEW Vol. 39 - No. 4 The Cal U Review is published quarterly by the Office of Marketing and University Relations and is distributed free. Third class postage paid at California.

CHANCELLOR Dr. John C. Cavanaugh

FROM THE PRESIDENT

These days, we’re all looking to spend our money wisely. More than ever, we want to make sound investments and receive good value for every dollar.

That’s one reason that students and their families are choosing Cal U. Universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education offer the most affordable four-year baccalaureate degree programs in the state.

That makes PASSHE universities a great value — but there’s more.

At Cal U, nearly 85 percent of eligible academic programs are accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation affirms that a program meets the highest quality standards. It offers assurance that Cal U is preparing students to succeed in the 21st-century workplace.

The Career Advantage program further reflects our mission of building character and careers. This four-year plan encourages all Cal U students to explore career options, gain valuable job experience and fine-tune their job-search skills before graduation.

The door to Career Services remains open to alumni, too, and a career counselor specializes in assisting experienced workers. This lifelong benefit is available to every Cal U graduate.

Beginning this semester, all students also have access to the Cal U Leader for Life program. This multi-level leadership process, based on Dr. Stephen R. Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and the Great Work, Great Careers program, equips students to be effective leaders throughout their lives.

Students who take advantage of these programs receive added value for their investment in higher education.

Cal U has been investing, too. Over the years, the University has improved the quality of student life by following a $250 million master plan that has transformed our campus. Our nationally recognized residence halls, quality food service and ’round-the-clock health center are just some of the amenities our students enjoy.

Last fall, Cal U embarked on a project to equip 70 classrooms with the latest “smart” technology and install a more robust Wi-Fi system that reaches every corner of our campus. These upgrades support our Cal U Fusion initiative, which is redefining the role of technology in teaching, learning and life.

All this, and more, makes Cal U a great value for our students and their families. And through the University’s continuous improvement process, we work tirelessly to enhance the value of every Cal U degree.

No matter when you received your diploma, I invite you to stay connected with your alma mater. Our active alumni find that Cal U offers rewarding opportunities for fellowship and service.

With warm regards,

BOARD OF GOVERNORS Guido M. Pichini, chairman Marie Conley Lammando, vice chair Aaron Walton, vice chair Leonard B. Altieri III Rep. Matthew E. Baker Jennifer Branstetter (designee for Gov. Corbett) Gov. Tom Corbett Sarah C. Darling, student member Rep. Michael K. Hanna Ronald G. Henry

CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Dr. Angelo Armenti, Jr., president Geraldine M. Jones, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. Lenora Angelone, vice president for Student Affairs Dr. Charles B. Mance, vice president for University Technology Services Ron Huiatt, vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations Robert Thorn, interim vice president for Administration and Finance Craig Butzine, vice president for Marketing and University Relations COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES Robert J. Irey, chair Lawrence Maggi ’79, vice chair Peter J. Daley II ’72, ’75 James T. Davis ’73 Annette Ganassi Autumn Harris, student trustee Leo Krantz

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Michael Napolitano ’68 Gwendolyn Simmons Jerry Spangler ’74 Aaron Walton ’68 The Hon. John C. Cavanaugh, chancellor, ex-officio

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Gorske ’62, president Lorraine Vitchoff ’74, vice president Barbara (Williams) Fetsko ’75, ’83, secretary Deanne (Sovich) Zelenak ’79, treasurer Harry Serene ’65, immediate past president Jim Lokay ’02 Roger M. Angelelli ’64 Lawrence Maggi ’79 Colleen (Murphy) Arnowitz ’88, ’97 Don Martin ’89 Mary Jo (Zosky) Barnhart ’84, ’11 Dante Morelli ’02 Rosemary (Rich) Bucchianeri ’69 Michael Napolitano ’68 Joseph Dochinez ’51 George Novak ’55 Kimberly (Mahaffey) Fahey ’97, ’99 Melanie (Stringhill) Patterson ’82, ’88 Brian Fernandes ’99, ’00 Fred Retsch ’62, ’66 Christina (Kost) Fosbrink ’01, ’03 Dolly Rozzi ’64 Josh Fosbrink, ’01, ’03 James Stofan ’71 Paul Gentile ’62 Lynne (Moltz) Stout ’94 Alan James ’62 Tim Susick ’76, ’78 Len Keller ’61 Judy (Durko) Zilkowski ’77, ’83 Marc Keller ’94 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Angelo Armenti, Jr., president Geraldine (Johns) Jones ’71 Ron Huiatt Leo Krantz

Amy (Gardner) Lombard ’01 Linda (Hootman) Serene ’64 Dr. Michael Slavin ’74

STUDENT MEMBERS Courtney Cochran Josh Giffin

Walter Harris Cory Stoner

STUDENT ASSOCIATION, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS David Mutich Ashley Baird Marc Roncone ’03 Hope Cox ’00, ’01 Shane Speicher Walter Harris Jenna Terchanik Robert Irey Dr. Donald Thompson Sam Jessee ’90 Michael Wagner Bonnie Keener Kevin McEvoy EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Lenora Angelone ’89,’92,’97 Leigh Ann Lincoln

Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’95, ’96, ’98 Larry Sebek

FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda H. Serene ’64, president Dr. David L. Amati ’70,’72 vice president Annette M. Kaleita ’55 Gary Kennedy ’58 Michele M. Mandell ’69, secretary Robert Lippencott ’66 Paul Kania ’87, treasurer Lawrence Maggi ’79 Roger Angelelli ’64 Michael A. Perry ’63 William R. Booker ’74 Dr. Saundra L. Stout ’72 Thomas Crumrine ’64 Steven P. Stout ’85 Nathaniel W. Dixon Dr. Lorraine G. Vitchoff ’74 Richard C. Grace ’63 Ben Wright William R. Flinn ’68 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Angelo Armenti, Jr., president Tim Gorske ’62

Angelo Armenti, Jr. President California University of Pennsylvania

Kenneth M. Jarin Bonnie L. Keener, student member Jonathan B. Mack Joseph F. McGinn C.R. “Chuck” Pennoni Sen. Jeffrey E. Piccola Harold C. Shields Robert S. Taylor Ronald J. Tomalis, secretary of education Sen. John T. Yudichak

Ron Huiatt

EDITOR Christine Kindl WRITERS Wendy Mackall Colleen C. Derda

Bruce Wald ’85 Jeff Bender

PHOTOGRAPHERS Greg Sofranko

S. C. Spangler

Cover sTorY: For its commitment to character building and leadership training, Cal U has been named the world’s first FranklinCovey Leadership University.

Page 4.

inSide Departments

Features

Alumni CAlendAr

16 – 17

Alumni Spotlight

20 – 21

CAmpuS ClipS

22 – 23

pAying it ForwArd

24

SportS roundup

25

mileStoneS

Classroom Partners

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A new partnership, dedicated to Dr. Stephen R. Covey, will bring ‘The Leader in Me’ training to California Elementary School.

Journey to Joplin

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Members of the Cal U Veterans Club make a fundraising mission to support their fellow veterans in tornado-ravaged Joplin, Mo.

Conference services

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Executive conference facilities at Cal U offer a dynamic meeting environment for businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Best in the Northeast For the seventh consecutive year, The Princeton Review has named California University of Pennsylvania one of the best universities in the region.

Cal U is among 220 “Best in the Northeast” schools profiled online at www.Princeton Review.com.

Nationally, about 25 percent of the country’s four-year institutions made the “2012 Best Colleges: Region By Region” list.

The Princeton Review profile notes Cal U’s “long tradition of excellence in teacher education and a variety … of other programs.” It also mentions the University’s “swanky student dorms” and “peaceful” campus atmosphere.

Colleges designated as “best” are chosen primarily for their excellent academic programs, based on data collected at hundreds of institutions, visits to schools, student comments and input from college advisers.

Two-wheelers

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University Police say bicycle patrols give them visibility, mobility and a positive connection with the campus community.

Field of dreams

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The Phillipsburg Soccer Facility scores points with players, coaches and fans.

Your review is oNliNe The Cal U Review is available online in an easy-to-read format.

Visit www.calu.edu/news and click on “Cal U Review” to see the current issue or previous editions. “As Seen in the Review” also provides links to special online-only features!

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Cal U named world’s first FranklinCovey

LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY Character building goes online as ‘Leader for Life’ debuts

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LEADER

LIFE

ecause it incorporates leadership principles into teaching, learning and campus life, Cal U has been named the world’s first FranklinCovey Leadership University.

The designation recognizes Cal U’s longtime commitment to character building and leadership training based on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and other works by Dr. Stephen R. Covey.

It also signals Cal U’s commitment to reaching Lighthouse University status by instituting the campus-wide Cal U Leader for Life leadership development process and achieving measurable results among students, faculty and staff.

FranklinCovey confers “lighthouse” status on model schools that meet specific criteria and demonstrate improvements based on its leadership model. The company recognizes 16 Lighthouse Schools worldwide.

“We are excited by this partnership and believe Cal U will be an inspiring example to all universities around the world,” says Sean Covey, the education practice leader at FranklinCovey,

More than 600 educators from across the country and around the world filled Steele Hall for the ‘The Leader in Me’ Global Education Summit.

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where he also is senior vice president of innovations and products.

Covey announced the designation Aug. 3 at The Leader in Me Global Education Summit, presented at Cal U. The third annual summit drew more than 600 educators from 26 U.S. states and 14 countries.

University Sean Covey introduces a President Angelo video message from his father, Armenti, Jr. Dr. Stephen R. Covey, at the expects the Cal U 2011 ‘Leader in Me’ Global Education Summit.

Leader for Life program to make a lasting impact on the University and its students.

“As a 7 Habits instructor for more than a decade, I have seen the power of Dr. Covey’s ideas firsthand. By positioning Cal U as the first FranklinCovey Leadership University, we hope to strengthen the character-building efforts that are a core component of Cal U’s mission.

“We want to give every member of our campus community the opportunity to become an effective leader.”

Step-by-step process The Cal U Leader for Life process was introduced to freshmen and transfer students during new-student orientation, before the start of fall classes. Seniors are the next to be included, followed by juniors and sophomores.

Similar multi-step programs are being developed for faculty and non-teaching staff.

Eventually, parents also will be included in the leadership initiative.

Right now, Leader for Life begins with a Leadership Foundations module that students are encouraged to take during their freshman

or sophomore year. The one-hour online course introduces them to the 7 Habits and asks them to begin work on a personal mission statement.

“This is an important exercise,” says Ron Paul, executive director of the Character Education Institute at Cal U. “It helps you put into words your core values and your most important goals.

“Leadership is within each of us, and we need to choose to find our voice, lead our lives with purpose and inspire others to see the leader within them.”

After completing the Foundations module, students may take the 7 Habits course either in face-to-face classes or — for the first time — entirely online.

“I enjoy meeting students in the 7 Habits classes,” says President Armenti, who regularly volunteers to teach the traditional six-week program.

“But I realize that many people are juggling jobs and family commitments along with their studies. Putting the 7 Habits course on the Internet lets those busy students complete it on their own schedule — and it makes the training available to our 2,000 Global Online students, too.

“The Leader for Life program will not only help them get a job, it will help them do their job,” he adds. “I believe that every student at every level can become a leader for life.”

During their junior or senior year, students are encouraged to complete Great Work, Great Career, a 3½-hour online course, and meet with a Career Services adviser for a career assessment.

Leader for Life participants receive a certificate for completing each step in the process. And they can record their accomplishments on their Activities Transcript, an official University document that complements their academic record.

Capstone projects Students who complete all three Leader for Life courses can qualify for Cal U’s highest leadership achievement by adding a capstone project.

Those who attend at least five Leadership Forums, meet for an hour with a Career Services adviser and complete a service project will earn the Leader for Life certificate and a graduation cord to wear at Commencement.

The first Leadership Forum, held in September, brought about 120 students to the Kara Alumni House for a presentation by President Armenti.

Words of Wisdom The 2011 leader in Me Global education summit featured a lineup of extraordinary speakers. Their messages about teaching and leadership drew standing ovations from the 600 educators who filled steele Hall Mainstage Theatre. “our children need to feel confident in their ability to make choices … and feel confident in themselves.” seAN CoveY education practice leader, FranklinCovey

“Because of our long history of preparing teachers, i think it is important that Cal u be involved as a leader in the effort to continuously improve our schools.”

The effectiveness of early leadership training is evident when a student from the A.B. Combs Magnet Elementary School addresses the education summit at Cal U.

“Our world is changing at great speed,” notes Paul. “Education is critically important, but it’s just as important to develop leadership qualities, competency and skills.

“The Cal U Leader for Life process not only prepares students to become great leaders, it also helps them to differentiate themselves in the marketplace and stand out among candidates for graduate school. It adds value to their college degree.”

Tamara Alkhattar, a senior who’s majoring in political science, has set her sights on earning the Leader for Life certificate and honor cord.

A member of the University Honors Program and both a Student Ambassador and an orientation leader, she already has taken the 7 Habits classes.

“It has helped with balancing academic and extracurricular activities,” Alkhattar says. “In my opinion, the Cal U Leader for Life program is a great initiative to truly instill a sense of strength and values.”

The leadership award “looks great on a resume,” she adds, and may help at job interviews, too.

“Employers will see your insight and your demeanor and know you are a Leader for Life.” ■

By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U

ANGelo ArMeNTi, Jr. President, California university of Pennsylvania

“Treat children like they have a Ph.D. of their own.

These kids need to find their voice, become leaders and start telling their stories.” eriN Gruwell, Author ‘The Freedom writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens used writing to Change Themselves and the world Around Them’

“You can love people without leading them, but you can’t lead people without loving them. … The people you are teaching today will someday teach your grandchildren.” sToNe KYAMBADDe vice president, ugandan Football Federation; featured as a Franklin Covey model “transition figure”

“shine your light on others so they can see their own worth and potential. As our students return to classrooms, we need to greet them with messages of hope and promise.”

Muriel suMMers Principal, A.B. Combs Magnet elementary school, raleigh, N.C.

For video highlights of the 2011 ‘Leader in Me’ Global Education Summit, visit www.calu.edu/news; click on “Cal U Review” and look for “As Seen in the Review.”

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Partnership links Cal u, California elementary voluNTeers will ProviDe ‘leADer iN Me’ TrAiNiNG For ClAssrooM TeACHers

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he start of a new academic year marked the beginning of a special partnership between Cal U and the California Area School District.

Through an agreement dedicated to Dr. Stephen R. Covey, faculty and staff volunteers from Cal U are providing the first full year of FranklinCovey’s The Leader in Me program to all administrators, teachers and staff at California Elementary School.

The Leader in Me is a school-wide program based on Covey’s bestseller The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

By instilling the 7 Habits principles, it aims to transform a school’s culture to improve academic achievement, minimize discipline problems, increase engagement among teachers and parents, and give students the skills and self-confidence they need to thrive.

“I want to do whatever I can to provide, encourage and inspire kids to take more of an active role in their own education,” says Michael Sears, principal at California Elementary.

He expects the results to be both long-lasting and far-reaching. Students in grades K-4 will learn The Leader in Me principles, Sears says, then continue on through high school and perhaps attend Cal U, the world’s first FranklinCovey Leadership University.

“Then we get that (Leader in Me experience) in return when they come back to the school district as teachers that we hire. It’s going to be a wonderful process where we have teachers who really understand the 7 Habits and teach them to our students, and it will just spread from there.”

Three Cal U students — Kathryn Ashton, Darla Kurnal and Kelly Rogers — already are involved in community service at California Elementary. Each of the future educators has committed to giving 300 hours of service as part of the AmeriCorps Community Fellows program.

They spend most of their time at the elementary school tutoring students in the Title I reading program. But the trio will be involved in The Leader in Me

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Principal Michael Sears looks forward to using ‘The Leader in Me’ process at California Elementary School.

activities as their schedules permit.

“We sat in on the initial training,” says Kurnal, who is working toward a master’s degree in elementary and special education. “It was fascinating because, as pre-service teachers, we were able to see the educators’ point of view and to imagine how we might use The Leader in Me ourselves.

“I think it’s very helpful that the students are learning the 7 Habits while they’re young,” she adds. “These are definitely skills they need to learn.”

Dr. Kate Mitchem, of Cal U’s Department of Early, Middle and Special Education, was among the Cal U educators who introduced The Leader in Me vision at California Elementary. The team will return regularly throughout the school year.

“Our first presentation was on Aug. 24, the day before students were to arrive for the first days of classes,” she recalls. “As a former teacher, I know how many things are going on that day.

But the teachers were all very positive, very excited and very engaged with the program.

“A lot of good things already are going

on at California Elementary School,” Mitchem adds. “After the presentation, the teachers’ evaluations were simply glowing. They see The Leader in Me as helping them do even better at meeting their students’ needs.” ■

Tell me again The leader in Me uses language that children can understand to help them relate the 7 Habits principles to their daily life.

Habit 1: Habit 2: Habit 3: Habit 4: Habit 5: Habit 6: Habit 7:

Be Proactive You’re in Charge Begin with the End in Mind Have a Plan Put First Things First Work First, Then Play Think Win-Win Everybody Can Win Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood Listen Before You Talk Synergize Together Is Better Sharpen the Saw Balance Feels Best

Walter Harris

Autumn Harris

Bonnie Keener

wHAT leADersHiP looKs liKe THree seNiors PlAY KeY roles oN CAMPus

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utumn Harris, Walter Harris and Bonnie Keener immersed themselves in student activities as soon as they arrived at Cal U. Now these seniors are among the most visible student leaders on campus.

All three say they want to leave a lasting impression on the University — and they hope their leadership activities will take them one step closer to successful careers.

Council of Trustees Autumn Harris is all about business.

A business administration major with a marketing concentration, she’s added minors in environmental science, management and finance to her academic schedule.

This year the resident of Coal Center, Pa., is the student representative on the Council of Trustees, the University’s governing body. But she still makes time for student activities.

“Clubs and organizations are where I met my first friends at Cal U,” she says.

“I also believe they foster good academic retention, build an excellent resume, and provide a great atmosphere to practice your professional skills.”

Harris is president of the California University Choir and a member of the Society of Leadership and Success, the Student Accounting Association, the Future Business Leaders of America, the Student Marketing Association and the Senior Gift Drive Committee.

She also takes part in the Peer Mentoring program and regularly works with California Borough historical societies and garden clubs.

“Some of us (students) choose to make our college experience unforgettable, and many involve themselves in clubs and organizations,” she says.

“In the end, what you choose to do with your extra time on campus makes up who you are and determines your legacy.”

Student Government Association Walter Harris wants to change lives, both at Cal U and in the courtroom.

President of the Student Government Association and a board member for the Student Association Inc. (SAI), he has his sights set on a career in law.

With that goal in mind, he’s studying political science, with a minor in theater. He is president of the Peace Studies Club and a member of Students Taking a New Direction (STAND), University Players, the Ultimate Frisbee Club and the Black Student Union.

“I hope to leave a lasting imprint on my University and to develop a legacy that will influence and help students for years to come,” says Harris, of Manitou Springs, Colo.

“I believe it is important for individuals to do what they can to elevate the condition of their immediate environment, and involvement in the organizations at Cal U has provided me with that opportunity.”

PASSHE Board of Governors Bonnie Keener was appointed this year as a student member of the Board of Governors for PASSHE, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

When she is not in class or busy in Harrisburg, Keener volunteers as a Peer Mentor and a leader for new-student orientation.

A liberal studies major with minors in leadership and business, Keener has helped to plan “The Big Event,” a day of service when students assist community residents. She also has been an organizer and active participant in the National Conference on Student Leadership, convocations and Mission Day activities.

“I have always wanted to work in higher education, and I’ve participated in many different activities on campus to gain experience,” says Keener, of Edinboro, Pa. “Hopefully, all the work I put in to being active on campus has prepared me for the future.” ■

By Jeff Bender, PR/Web writer at Cal U.

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veTerANs MAKe JourNeY To JoPliN ‘operation CalJop’ raises funds for vets in tornado-ravaged Missouri town

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On their way to Joplin, veterans unfurl the Cal U flag at the national headquarters of the American Legion in Indianapolis, Ind.

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n the middle of summer, as students’ thoughts were mostly on jobs or internships and general relaxation, Cal U senior Robert Marrone saw a news report from Joplin, Mo. On May 22, 2011, a tornado had cut a 6-mile path through the city of 50,150.

It killed more than 150 people and injured more than 1,000. The twister destroyed 7,000 homes and 500 businesses. It also leveled six school buildings, including Joplin High School, and damaged four more.

“I was watching TV and saw how Joplin was struggling to get ready for the school year,” Marrone says. “So I thought it would be a great idea to help the city in some way.”

Marrone — an Army veteran, past president of the Cal U Veterans Club, an intern with U.S. Rep. Mark Critz’s office, and a political science major — worked with Capt. Robert Prah, director of the Office of Veterans Affairs, to organize Operation CalJop, a four-day trip that raised money for veterans in Joplin who were affected by the tornado.

Traveling with Prah and Marrone were Michael Virgin, a sophomore majoring in corporate and homeland security who served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and Clarence “Bud” Brangard, a senior liberal studies major and a retired U.S. Army Ranger.

The group collected donations at seven American Legion posts and one Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Pennsylvania, West

Virginia, Ohio and Missouri. They also visited the American Legion headquarters in Indianapolis on their way to deliver the donations to veterans in Joplin.

Operation CalJop has raised about $1,175 so far, “and we still have posts sending money,” Prah says.

“I knew it would be a big drive,” Marrone says of the 1,800-mile round trip. “But I don’t like it when people are forgotten. I didn’t want people to forget about the vets in Joplin.”

Utter devastation The Operation CalJop crew was greeted in Joplin by Legionnaire Howard Spiva, commander of the Robert S. Thurman Post 13.

“We’ve heard from people in 22 different states since the tornado, but we never had anyone make a total commitment like they did at your school,” Spiva says. “I’ve been in this for 40 years, and we never had people commit to helping their fellow man like this group did.”

He described the devastation in his city: “We have so many who were hurt. Eighteen Legionnaires lost their homes. Two lost their lives. One-third of the city was wiped out.”

Spiva’s Legion post has about 270 members.

“Those who are able are doing things every day” for veterans affected by the tornado, he says.

Needs range from finding new homes to simpler chores: acquiring rocking chairs to replace well-worn favorites that were destroyed, or finding families in need of baby strollers after someone donated six.

“Your group can go back and tell people exactly how bad it is here, and they are 110 percent correct,” Spiva says.

Says Marrone: “The hospital in Joplin was badly damaged in the tornado.

They have a makeshift one set up that looks just like a combat hospital in Iraq.

“It’s almost revolting how much destruction we saw.”

Veterans helping veterans This was the second road trip for the Cal U veterans. Last year the club traveled to Michigan for the University’s first football game of the season. Along the way, the veterans raised more than $1,750 for Jackie Syverson, a Cal U graduate student whose husband was killed while on active duty.

This year, the group started at American Legion Post 377, in California, Pa., where they were met by state Rep. Peter J. Daley ’72, ’75.

“It’s a fantastic idea, and so great to see these young men giving back to other veterans,” Daley says.

Ron ’79 and Rita ’80 Godsey, who are members of the Sons of the American Legion and Ladies Auxiliary, also were at Post 377 to see the Cal U contingent off.

“Veterans are always there for each other,” Rita Godsey says.

The group’s second stop was at American Legion Post 801 in Roscoe, Pa.

“For them to go out of their way to make a trip like this to benefit veterans is admirable,” says Dave Biles, past commander of the post and a Navy veteran. “It helps them realize that there are people supporting them.”

Kerrie Gill Sr. ’76, ’83 is a 26-year member of Post 377 and department commander of the Pennsylvania American Legion. He was at the Legion’s national convention in Minneapolis at the time of the CalJop trip, but he expressed his admiration for the group’s efforts.

“What’s interesting is the attention they paid to the Four Pillars of the American Legion — veterans affairs and rehabilitation, national security, Americanism, and children and youth.

“Their mission was very similar to the National Emergency Fund, which provides financial assistance to American Legion family members and posts in times of natural disasters.”

Virgin agrees. “This trip was more than just delivering monetary donations to a town in jeopardy. It was about fulfilling the commitment every one of us has been branded with: Taking care of our own.”

Prah says the reception the group received at every stop was phenomenal.

In particular, he cites Post 283 in Pickerington, Ohio, and a last-minute stop at Post 347 in St. Clair, Mo., as especially memorable.

“We stopped at these two posts on the way back to express our thanks and update them on how things went in Joplin,” Prah says.

Other area posts that supported

State Rep. Peter J. Daley II ’72, ’75 talks with Veterans Club members Michael Virgin (left) and Bud Brangard (center) at the American Legion Post in California, Pa.

Robert Marrone (left), president of the Veterans Club, makes plans with Capt.

Robert Prah, director of the Office of Veterans Affairs, as the trip to Joplin gets under way.

the mission were in Charleroi and Taylorstown, in Pennsylvania, and in Wheeling, W.Va. In a blog on BurnPit, the American Legion’s website, Prah posted some thoughts about the mission as his group neared Joplin.

“Since the University has adopted the three core values of Integrity, Civility and Responsibility, I have noticed that we veterans live (those same three values) and sometimes we don’t even realize it.

“We have sacrificed a lot in our many years (nearly 50 total years of active duty years between the 4 of us) but we continue to serve our nation in other ways.” ■

By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

Veterans Club members pose with the Cal U flag at American Legion Post 22 in Charleroi, Pa.

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Fertile ground For FreSher thinking Conference organizers find state-of-the-art technology, amenities at river’s Bend or nearly 160 years, California University has been a place where students and professors can open their minds and exchange ideas.

The scenic campus is rapidly becoming a destination for organizations seeking the same dynamic environment.

Executive conference facilities, branded as River’s Bend, offer “fertile ground for fresher thinking.” This year, clients looking for that rare combination of energy, inspiration and state-of-the-art facilities booked 87 separate events at Cal U. “We can hold nearly any type of event here, with advantageous pricing and all the amenities and services you would get in a big-city hotel,” says Juanita Timney, a certified meeting professional and the executive director of University Conference Services.

The campus currently offers 100 meeting venues of various sizes, including fixed-seat theaters, banquet halls, multi-purpose rooms and 20 “smart” classrooms equipped with the latest technology. Fifty additional classrooms will be

F Educators at The Leader in Me Global Education Summit enjoy a buffet-style meal in the Gold Rush dining area.

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upgraded with smart technology by fall 2012.

Cal U’s air-conditioned, suite-style residence halls allow River’s Bend to offer 684 rooms and 1,407 beds when school is not in session.

Catering packages range from refreshing meeting snacks and beverages to multi-course gourmet dinners, all prepared by the award-winning AVI FoodSystems.

“Right here on campus, you have everything you’d find at a hotel conference center,” Timney adds.

Conference attendees can unwind in the newly renovated Herron Recreation and Fitness Center, which houses exercise equipment, an indoor jogging track, racquetball courts, a 33-foot climbing wall and a lap pool, whirlpool and steam sauna. Guests can try out the golf simulator in the Professional Golf Management area, take in a movie at the Vulcan Theatre, view a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition in the Manderino Library Gallery, or ride the shuttle to Roadman Park and SAI Farm, Cal U’s outdoor recreational complex.

Soon, the new Convocation Center will add 142,000 square feet of event space, including a 6,000-seat arena and two executive conference wings with 16,000 square feet of “smart” classrooms.

“I believe our meeting space is better then most hotels’, because we have the smart technology built right into the rooms,” Timney says. “In a lot of hotels, you’re sitting at a skirted table, sometimes in a ballroom. Our conference rooms are designed specifically as high-end meeting spaces.”

Varied clientele The Cal U campus appeals to a wide variety of organizations. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Lutheran Synod held conferences at Cal U this summer.

FranklinCovey presented its Leader in Me Global Education Summit at Cal U for the third time, and Sweet Adelines International, a worldwide organization of female singers, came to campus for a five-day training session for its chorus directors, judges and arrangers.

“Our attendees raved about the facilities,” says Kathy Hayes, director of meetings and corporate services for Sweet Adelines. “They loved the proximity of the residence halls, classrooms and dining hall. They especially liked the residence hall — many said the rooms were nicer and cleaner than some hotels!”

Both PennDOT and FranklinCovey already have booked space for next summer.

Greer Parker anticipates a return visit, too. The principal of Cal-Allen Elementary School near Corpus Christi, Texas, she attended the Leader in Me Global Education Summit in August.

The University’s red-brick buildings and neatly trimmed shrubs reminded her of her childhood in Georgia, she says.

“The campus is beautiful, and this

Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, gather in Steele Hall, which seats more than 600.

was the best conference I ever attended.

The people are friendly, and the facilities are so nice and close by. It’s very comfortable here. I plan on coming back next summer.”

Support for scholarships River’s Bend is a practical alternative to costly resort-style conference centers, Timney notes. Clients who choose Cal U don’t sacrifice either amenities or service — and because conference revenue goes directly to scholarships, they have the added satisfaction of helping students gain a college education.

“Cal U provides an ideal environment for learning, education and networking events on a beautiful campus, away from the distractions of one’s office or building,” Timney says.

“Events are under scrutiny these days, and many business leaders have reservations about a large amount of money going to high-end, resort-type locations.

Instead, groups that choose Cal U are meeting in an academic environment where they are helping students.”

In addition to the five-person University Conference Services staff, Timney relies on the talent and resources of many groups on campus. Facilities management, University technology services, dining services and marketing staff all play a role in the success of River’s Bend.

And the support starts from the top.

“From the day I was hired, President Armenti’s support has been a big reason why we are already off to a good start,” says Timney, who joined Cal U in 2009.

“It’s so important that our clients leave here happy, and it’s a big plus when they see we have support from the highest level.”

Guests dine at the Kara Alumni House, an elegant location with a view of the outdoors.

That team effort has the Sweet Adelines singing the praises of River’s Bend.

“The staff was excellent to work with,” says Hayes. “From the conference services staff to the students, their answer was never ‘no,’ but always ‘yes, I can help with that’ — and it was done with a smile. It was one of the best campus experiences we've had.” ■

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

Cal U residence halls offer clean, comfortable accommodations.

Did you know?

• In 2011, California University played host to more than 2,000 conferencing guests for a variety of events including executive conferences, meetings and training sessions.

• Summer camps bring children and teens to campus. This year, 57 sports, academic, band and organization camps introduced 4,310 prospective students to Cal U. To learn more about River’s Bend executive conference services or the Convocation Center at Cal U, visit www.calu.edu. Click on “Information for … Business and Community” at the top of the homepage, then look for “Conference Services.” To contact an event planner, e-mail conferences@calu.edu or call 866-941-7437.

Members of the Sweet Adelines hold a break-out session in the Blaney Theater, a 147-seat ”black box” performance space.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 11 ■

students serve with AmeriCorps Programs help to develop a campus ‘culture of service’ but this program includes more general areas of service. Students receive scholarships when they complete the programs.

“AmeriCorps programs are a wonderful way for our students to experience different service opportunities,” says Diane Williams, director of the Center for Civic Engagement.

“We want our students to develop a vision for how they want to contribute to society and use these positions to develop the necessary skills.”

Last year was the first time Cal U was able to offer AmeriCorps positions, thanks to the Office of Grants and Contracts. Nine students completed the program.

This year, Cal U has 23 Community Fellows. The majority work on campus, in the Center for Civic Engagement, the Veterans Affairs Office and the Peer Mentoring program.

“This was a Ten others, all aspiring educators, are working as once-in-a-lifetime tutors in the nearby thing to do.”

Uniontown, California LAUREN KROSS ’11 and Charleroi area school districts.

Four Scholars in Service are working on campus with Greek Life programs and the Options@ CalU drug and alcohol prevention program. One is working with River Towns, a partnership between the Student Conservation AmeriCorps volunteer Lauren Kross paints a Association and porch for a senior citizen in Florida during a the Pennsylvania service trip this summer.

Environmental Council that

T

PHOTO: Courtesy of The Call to Serve

he chance to hone leadership skills, mentor peers, tutor younger students and serve with nonprofit organizations: It’s a lot to expect from one service opportunity.

But 28 Cal U students are experiencing many of those benefits thanks to a growing relationship between AmeriCorps and the University’s Center for Civic Engagement.

AmeriCorps is a national network of programs that meets needs in education, the environment, public safety and other areas. At Cal U, students can apply to two such programs — Community Fellows or Scholars in Service.

Fellows pledge 300 or 450 hours to address needs in the areas of college access and success. Scholars pledge the same number of hours,

12 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

seeks to promote riverside communities, including California, Pa., as recreational assets.

Two students participated in Scholars in Service last year. One was junior Kelly Horrell, who earned her hours at the Kiski Valley YMCA. She returned to the program this year as a Community Fellow who is assisting Williams in coordinating the AmeriCorps positions.

The other 2010-2011 Scholar in Service was Lauren Kross, who graduated in May with a degree in applied sociology. She completed her hours with the Washington Family Center in Washington, Pa., and The Call to Serve, a nonprofit organization that partners with other groups nationwide to provide service opportunities to college-age students.

Kross and nine others traveled to five states over 19 days. Their projects included restoring an oyster bed in Wilmington, N.C.; completing a hurricane and tornado awareness project in Pensacola, Fla.; and cleaning up flood damage in Nashville, Tenn.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do,” Kross says. “I may never do anything on such a large scale as this, but I will always want to volunteer where I can.”

Prior to her Scholars in Service project, Kross worked in the Center for Civic Engagement as a Community Fellow.

“Lauren found her passion in service at Cal U, and now she is trying to find her specific interest in service as a possible career,” Williams says.

“We want to develop a culture of service at Cal U, and these AmeriCorps opportunities are helping to do just that.” ■

By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

Carly Graziadei (left) and Hayley Ettaro share a laugh at the Cal U new-student orientation.

Alicia Patt, a public relations major (left); David Kalatshoff, a radio and television communications major (center); and Morgan Bright, a criminal justice major, join the Core Values Candlelight Vigil on the Quad.

BACk to SChool, CAliForNiA-sTYle nrollment continues to climb as students and their families recognize the value of a Cal U education. With a headcount of about 9,500 students this fall, enrollment at California University reached an all-time high for the 14th consecutive year.

In keeping with Cal U tradition, the University welcomed first-year students and their families on Move-In Day by lending a hand as freshmen settled into their residence halls. A picnic gave moms and dads a last chance to say good-bye before new students embarked on a four-day Cal U for Life orientation program.

The following weekend, students mingled with faculty, alumni and community members at the annual Party in the Park, featuring a Welcome

E

On Move-In Day, nursing transfer student Krissy Donohue takes a break before organizing her room in the residence hall.

Fans of the band Forever the Sickest Kids enjoy the concert during Party in the Park.

Back Picnic hosted by President Armenti and a performance by the Dallas-based punk-pop band Forever the Sickest Kids.

The party at Roadman Park, another popular Cal U tradition, coincides with the opening of Vulcan football season and celebrates the start of another promising academic year. â–

Parks and recreation major Rachel Hull shows her Vulcan pride.

Cal U student Emily Dolph gets a little support from her friends during the Vulcan football home opener at Roadman Park.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 13 â–

exPloriNG TeCHNoloGY? FACulTY GeTs TlC TeACHiNG AND leArNiNG CeNTer is NexT sTeP For CAl u FusioN iNiTiATive

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he Cal U Fusion initiative has taken another step forward with the Teaching and Learning Center (TLC), a new resource for faculty members.

“Cal U Fusion is about blending technology with teaching and learning,” says Dr. Joseph Zisk ’73, who has been appointed to lead the center.

“With laptops and smartphones and tablets, most of us have a computer right in our hand. The goal of the TLC is to help our faculty use that technology effectively. It should help us become better teachers, and ultimately improve student learning.”

A professor in the Department of Secondary Education and Administrative Leadership, Zisk uses high-tech tools extensively, especially as coordinator of the online Master of Arts Teaching program.

And he’s an experienced guide to the fast-changing world of instructional technology. Before teaching at Cal U, he spent five years as the technology supervisor in a suburban school district.

“That was in the 1990s, when ‘networking’ was the buzzword,” he recalls.

“Teachers were just beginning to see how the Internet could be used in education.”

Now Cal U professors in all disciplines are exploring effective uses for mobile devices and “smart classroom” technology.

These days, even face-to-face classes often have online components.

“It’s called ‘blended learning,’” Zisk explains. The University’s online learning management system, Desire2Learn (D2L), is a component of every course.

Some professors use D2L to post video clips or PowerPoint notes. Others 14 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Joe Zisk, Teaching and Learning Center director.

might use it to publish a syllabus or give feedback on student assignments.

Zisk and TLC instructional specialist CJ DeJuliis are preparing short videos that explain, step by step, how to accomplish such tasks.

To supplement hands-on training, they also create online tutorials that demonstrate the high-tech equipment being installed in 70 Cal U classrooms.

“I’m a teacher,” Zisk says, “and a big part of my job is to make technology teacher-friendly. Faculty can come to the center for help, but it’s much more efficient for them to pull up a how-to video on their smartphone.”

The TLC also is fine-tuning “apps” developed especially for Cal U faculty.

One application keeps track of attendance.

Another makes digital flash cards.

The customized apps are Web-based, so they work on most mobile devices.

A text-based polling system is also in the works.

Teacher workshops and regular meetings with the Faculty Professional Development Committee (FPDC) will keep TLC projects aligned with faculty needs.

“Technology is always evolving,” Zisk says, “so part of my responsibility is to keep up with what’s current. I’ll need the help of an advisory committee to be sure we stay on the cutting edge.”

For now, the TLC is housed in Keystone Hall. But Zisk and Cal U President Angelo Armenti, Jr. envision a “learning commons” where faculty — and eventually, students and staff — can exchange ideas and explore best practices.

“When we share among ourselves, we lift everybody up,” Zisk says.

“Technology is always exciting, but it’s always changing. We can always find ways to do things better.” ■

By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U

App keeps you in touch with Cal u A new Cal Fusion app is available at no charge on Apple iOS and Android devices.

It includes the University’s popular “people finder” directory, a calendar of campus events, and links to Cal U news and Vulcan sports. Users can check class schedules, track the Vulcan Flyer shuttle, watch Cal U videos or access the University’s mobile website, m.calu.edu.

The app was developed by Blackboard Mobile, a division of education technology company Blackboard Inc., with input from Cal U staff.

To download the free Cal Fusion app, search for “California University of Pennsylvania” in the iTunes App Store or the Android Marketplace.

Two other Cal U applications also are available: Look in the iTunes store for CalUFusion, developed by Songwhale and introduced last year. Or listen to WCAL, the campus radio station, with an app created by students and available on iTunes or the Android Marketplace.

Bike patrols boost campus safety uNiversiTY PoliCe TrAvel quiCKlY, quieTlY oN Two wHeels

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hey can cross the Quad, slip between buildings and ride up and down stairs. They can even roll into a residence hall.

The University Police Department’s bicycle patrol began its second year of operation this fall.

Riding their mountain bikes, officers James Jeffrey ’08 and Tony Gismondi ’06 are familiar sights on campus.

“It gives us an expanded option, because the bikes can go where cars can’t,” says police Chief Bob Downey Jr. “People don’t look for a bike when they are doing things they shouldn’t be doing. They look for the police car.”

Jeffrey and Gismondi both joined the Cal U force in April 2010 and volunteered for the patrol. In addition to their police certification, both are certified through the International Police Mountain Bike Association, which requires more than 40 hours of training in bike patrol tactics, including a six-hour nonstop bicycle trip and lessons in how to ride stairs.

Originally from South Park, Pa., Jeffrey came back to Cal U after working with the Ocean City Police Department in Maryland. Gismondi grew up in Elco, Pa., and returned to his alma mater after working for the Metro Police Department in Washington, D.C. The bike patrol is an effective addition to public safety on campus, Downey says. Construction zones, the parking garage and the expanded River Lot — not to mention Cal U’s steadily increasing enrollment — prompted the patrol.

Although the bike-riding officers perform many other duties throughout the week, they say their two-wheeled travels help them connect with the campus community.

“On the bike I am a lot more interactive with people, and I’m often asked for directions,” says Jeffrey, a longtime recreational bike rider who estimates he rides 20-25 miles per week.

Officer James Jeffrey cycles across campus on his mountain bike.

Bicycle patrol officer Tony Gismondi rolls through the Quad.

“Our response times are just better in certain situations.

I’ve been known to ride through the front door of a dorm and then out the side door. Students were surprised at first, but they are more used to us now.”

The officers sometimes ride their bikes at Roadman Park, especially during sports events that draw big crowds. ”People tell me they see me all over the place … because we just keep moving,” Gismondi says. “Unlike in a car, I can ride right up to a group of people, talk to them, and make sure everything’s OK, because I’m getting a firsthand look.

“And people don’t see us when we don’t want to be seen,” he adds. “You’ll hear the engine of the police car or my keys jingling in my pocket if I’m walking, but on a bike, you won’t. We can ride pretty much anywhere you can walk.”

Downey said he hopes to offer 24-hour bike patrol protection in the future.

“It’s working out well,” he says. “The bikes can get in places where cars can’t, and that’s a big advantage for us.” ■

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 15 ■

ALUMNI N E W S GREETINGS, FELLOW ALUMNI,

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outhwest Normal School, California State Teachers College, California State College and finally California University of Pennsylvania — my, how far we have come!

The Class of 1962 will celebrate its 50th reunion next June during Alumni Weekend, and the class of 1987 will mark its 25th reunion. These milestones will be celebrated during a special reunion dinner at the Michael and Julia Kara Alumni House. If you graduated in 1962, 1987 or any other year, I encourage you to come and celebrate with us.

One thing that has not changed over the years is the financial struggle faced by many California students. It was not easy to afford college in 1962, when I graduated, and it becomes increasingly difficult every year. So a major focus of our Alumni Association is funding scholarships for Cal U’s bright, eager and dedicated students.

Where would you and I be today if not for the education that we received at California?

President Armenti continues to share his message that Cal U is being “privatized without a plan” because of the disinvestment of state funding for public higher education.

With higher education costs rising and state support dwindling, many of our students simply do not have the resources to attend college. Those who do attend Cal U graduate with increasing amounts of student loan debt.

It is up to us, the Alumni Association members, to help support the current and future Cal U students, so they can continue to attend Cal U and benefit from a college degree, as we did.

To ensure the future vitality of Cal U, the students need our help. And you can establish your legacy at California with a scholarship that will help students.

Interested? Contact Amy Lombard. She will have your questions answered and get you started. Class of ’62, ’87, ’99 or anywhere in between — our time to act is now.

See you at Alumni Weekend 2012!

Tim Gorske ’62 President, Cal U Alumni Association Board of Directors

16 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

alumni calendar DECEMBER Senior Gift Drive collection — Dec. 5-15 Seniors staff a table daily in the Natali Student Center to collect donations for the Class of 2011 Scholarship. Future alumni, this is your chance to leave a legacy!

Hockey Night — Dec. 6 Join us for a hockey night in Pittsburgh! The festivities begin with a student and alumni reception from 5-7 p.m. in the Cal U Conference Room at CONSOL Energy Center, home of the Pittsburgh Penguins. An open skate at 7 p.m. lets you try out the Penguins’ ice. Then see the Cal U men’s and women’s hockey teams compete.

President’s Dinner for Graduates — Dec. 15 Winter 2011 graduates take their first step toward becoming active alumni with an invitation-only dinner at 6 p.m. in Gallagher Hall.

Global Online Graduation Reception — Dec. 16 At 3:30 p.m. in the Grand Hall of Old Main, meet students who have earned their degrees through Global Online, Cal U’s 100 percent online program.

Many of these students will be on campus for the first time and celebrating their graduation with family and friends.

Graduate Commencement — Dec. 16 Master’s degree candidates will receive their diplomas at 7 p.m. in the new Cal U Convocation Center.

Undergraduate Commencement — Dec. 17 Bachelor's degree candidates will receive their diplomas at 10 a.m. in the new Cal U Convocation Center.

JANUARY Alumni Board Meeting — Jan. 21 The Alumni Association Board of Directors holds its winter meeting at 10 a.m. in the Kara Alumni House.

Cal U Night at the Pops — Jan. 27 Students and alumni enjoy an evening’s entertainment with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall, Pittsburgh. After a pre-concert reception in the Grand Tier Lounge, PSO conductor Marvin Hamlisch leads a performance of “Movie Music” and the All-Star College Choir performs. Contact the Alumni Office for ticket information.

SAVE THE DATE Alumni Weekend — June 1-2 Plan to join us for our annual Alumni Weekend celebration, when the Class of 1962 will mark its milestone “Pioneer” 50th reunion and present a class gift, alumni awards and more. The Class of 1987 will celebrate its 25th reunion, too. And don't forget the President’s Gala on June 2! Plans are under way for the 1987 and 1962 class committees to meet in late spring.

Send us your e-mail address at alumni@calu.edu to stay connected with the most up-to-date happenings at Cal U, including alumni chapter and sporting events, campus lectures, student events and more!

Your gift matters As 2011 comes to a close and we look to the new year, take a moment to remember that one professor, mentor or friend who truly made California a special place for you. Consider making a gift in that person’s honor this holiday season. Please know that every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.

Make your end-of-year, tax-deductible gift online today by visiting: www.calu.edu/giving.

HoMeCoMiNG 2011 University President Angelo Armenti, Jr. poses with 2011 Homecoming Queen Ashley Gill and Homecoming King Corey Strennen during halftime festivities at Roadman Park.

Student Activity Board members Karlee Young (left) and Jasmin Runner get hugs from the Pittsburgh Penguins’ mascot, Iceburgh, during the Homecoming Parade.

visiT our PHoTo GAllerY For more Cal U Alumni Association images, visit calualumni.phanfare.com/2011. See pictures and video from recent events and explore images from years past, including Homecoming photos from as far back as the 1950s!

Browse the gallery or purchase your favorites.

A portion of the purchase price benefits the Alumni Scholarship Fund.

Alumni ambassadors Working within the Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund, the Alumni Ambassadors offer campus tours and represent our current students at Vulcan Huddle sports events and at alumni chapter, regional and on-campus gatherings. This year’s Alumni Ambassadors are (back row, from left) Jonothan Dashiell, Chase Loper ’10, Nate Dixon, Nick Thomas and Cameron Muma; and (front row, from left) Courtney Cochran, Liz Lynerd and Randi Miller.

Next time you’re at the Kara Alumni House, be sure to say hello!

AluMNi AssoCiATioN BoArD oF DireCTors

CAll For nominAtionS Would you like to stand for election to the Cal U Alumni Association Board of Directors? Or would you like to place the name of a fellow alumnus on the ballot?

eleCTioNs will TAKe PlACe THis sPriNG, wiTH eiGHT seATs To Be FilleD. Candidates will be screened by the Nominating Committee for Board Members (NCB). All candidates must submit a nomination form, a brief essay and a color photo. Nomination forms must be received by the NCB no later than April 12, 2012.

For candidates’ qualifications, details about the nominating process and an official nomination form, visit www.calu.edu/alumni.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 17 ■

FoundAtion mArkS 25 yeArS oF StewArdShip NoNProFiT orGANizATioN MANAGes DoNATioNs, DisBurses sCHolArsHiP FuNDs or 25 years, the Foundation for California University of Pennsylvania has supported the mission and goals of Cal U and its students by providing stewardship of private funds.

An independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the foundation solicits and receives funds to hold, invest, administer and disburse.

Since it was incorporated in 1986, the foundation has recorded more than 13,000 generous donors.

“The foundation is critical to getting private scholarship help to our students,” says Linda H. Serene ’64, president of the foundation’s board of directors.

Donated funds are managed by the foundation’s board, with advice from professional financial advisers. Prudent investing aims to maximize long-term returns while maintaining an acceptable level of financial risk.

The board’s Investment Committee receives regular financial reports, tracking investment performance to keep up a steady flow of support for the hundreds of scholarships awarded each year.

Finance and Audit committees also monitor performance and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

“The foundation board is a dedicated group of alumni and friends of the University who truly love California and care about its students,” says Serene, a board member since 2004.

“They have a real understanding of the need for student scholarships, and of the need for them to be prudent, responsible managers of the donations that are collected.”

The foundation staff, led by interim executive director Denise Smith ’88, ’89, handles its day-to-day operations and acts as a liaison with the Office of University Development and the Financial Aid Office.

“Since my arrival in 1999, it has been wonderful to see the growth of the

F

From left, Cal U President Angelo Armenti, Jr. and foundation officers Linda Serene, president; Paul Kania, treasurer; and Dave Amati, vice president, stop outside the Kara Alumni House before the foundation’s September meeting.

foundation and how each year the board grows on the shoulders of the previous board,” says Smith.

Securing and managing private dollars is relatively new for schools in the Pennsylvania FouNDATioN State System of

alone, the foundation awarded more than 275 scholarships to Cal U students.

The foundation guards donors’ privacy, but students are encouraged to pen thank-you notes to their benefactors.

A scholarship recipient leADers speaks at every Higher Education. foundation board These individuals have served as president of the board of directors for Until the midmeeting, and Serene the Foundation for California University.

1980s, these public says she’s gratified • William Boyd 1987-1997 institutions were to hear what a • Charles Pryor 1997-2005 not permitted difference the • Richard Grace 2006-2007 to solicit private assistance can make.

• Dale Hamer 2008-2009 donations.

In the coming years, • Linda H. Serene 2010-2011 But thanks to the foundation plans For a complete list of current officers generous alumni to increase the number and other board members, see page 2 of this magazine. For information about and other friends, of awards, as well as supporting student scholarships or giving the University’s the amount of each to the Campaign to Build Character endowment — the award granted to Cal U and Careers, visit www.calu.edu/giving. pool of funds that students. Discussions generates income for scholarships and continue about how to how to make other needs — has grown steadily in scholarship information more accessible recent years. through emerging technology.

In 1992, when Dr. Angelo Armenti, Jr. “I take great satisfaction in my arrived to serve as President of Cal U, work with the foundation,” Serene the market value of the endowment says. “And like all our board members, was about $650,000. This year, it I take great pride in the success we’ve exceeds $20 million. had in supporting the University and In the 2010-2011 academic year our students.” ■

By Christine Kindl, communications director at Cal U

18 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Teaching among the trees Campus arboreTum ‘exTenDs The Classroom’ ouTDoors

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n any season, a walk across campus reveals the beauty of the Arboretum at California University.

But the collection of nearly 500 neatly labeled trees is also an educational tool being used by students, educators and the community.

“The arboretum opens the walls and extends the classroom outside,” says Dr. Robert Whyte, associate professor in Cal U’s Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. “It serves our educational mission, and everyone loves going out there.”

Whyte uses the arboretum when he teaches Forest Ecology and Dendrology — tree science — to Cal U students.

In summer he teaches Know Your Trees, a one-day continuing education class that’s popular with high school and elementary school teachers. Whyte also has spoken about environmental issues at Carmichaels High School, and he occasionally leads walking tours of the arboretum for gradeschool children and community members.

The tree collection does more than beautify the 92-acre main campus or illustrate the differences among tree species.

“We don’t just want to teach you how to identify a tree, we want you to understand the relationship between the tree and the environment,” Whyte says.

“What’s neat is when people begin to see the other animals and organisms that interact, so it becomes a full-blown educational experience.”

Nationally recognized, Cal U’s arboretum is a member of the American Horticultural Society and the American Public Gardens Association. And Whyte, with the support of Cal U President Angelo Armenti, Jr., is looking to earn Tree Campus USA recognition through the Arbor Day Foundation.

Tree Campus USA colleges and universities strive to engage their students, as well

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

DiD you know?

• In August, 35 people visited Cal U’s arboretum for Penn State Extension’s annual Landscape and Ornamental Field Day. Participants, including the Cal U grounds crew, attended to receive state-mandated maintenance credits for pesticide applicator licenses.

• The oldest tree on campus is a majestic sycamore, or London plane tree (Plantanus hybrida), planted around 1810. It stands behind Herron Hall.

To download a map or learn how you can support the campus arboretum, visit www.calu.edu and use the keyword “arboretum.” Or e-mail Dr. Whyte at whyte@calu.edu.

Eberly College of Science and Technology 250 University Avenue, California, PA 15419-1394 Phone: 724-938-4169 Fax: 724-938-5743 E-mail: bella@calu.edu www.calu.edu A proud member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Integrity, Civility, Responsibility

as the broader community, to establish and sustain healthy community forests.

As part of this initiative, Whyte and President Armenti hope to form a campus tree advisory board, which will include community members.

To bring even more children to campus, Cal U’s Biology and Wildlife clubs are developing an environmental education program using the arboretum as the backdrop.

“Our students truly enjoy working with the younger students and getting them involved,” Whyte says. “Becoming a Tree Campus USA school will be another great way to promote Cal U and bring us all together on the same page with the community.”

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FOCUS O N E B E R LY C O L L E G E O F S C I E N C E A N D T E C H N O L O G Y

geology booms marcellus shale drilling fuels program’s growth

California University of Pennsylvania

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overview

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of the EBERLY COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Dean:

Dr. Leonard A. Colelli Department Chairs:

Dr. John Kallis Applied Engineering and Technology

Dr. David Argent Biological and Environmental Sciences

Dr. Gary DeLorenzo Business and Economics (interim)

Dr. Kimberly Woznack Chemistry and Physics

Dr. Thomas Wickham Earth Sciences

Dr. Mohamed Benbourenane Math, Computer Science and Information Systems

Dr. Cheryl Hettman Nursing

Dr. Charles Nemeth Professional Studies

Program Directors:

Lt. Col. Ronald Bonomo Military Science

Mr. Michael Amrhein National Center for Robotics Engineering Technology Education

Dr. Charles Nemeth Institute for Law and Public Policy

Dr. Thomas Mueller Peter J. Daley Institute for Analysis of Safety and Security Issues Using Spatial Technologies

Ms. Kelly Hunt Entrepreneurial Leadership Center/ Student Incubator

Welcome to the fall 2011 edition of Focus On, featuring the Eberly College of Science and Technology. I am again pleased to report that great things are occurring in the Eberly College.

This publication highlights examples of high-quality student research in meteorology, supervised by Dr. Chad Kauffman (Earth Sciences); a NASA-funded atmospheric datagathering project at Wallops Island, supervised

by Mr. Jeffrey Sumey (Applied Engineering and Technology); and research at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory supervised by Dr. Sarah Meiss (Biological and Environmental Sciences).

Additionally, you will read about an interesting collaboration between our robotics engineering technology and geology students, who designed, built and tested a prototype robot that climbs and descends sheer rock faces.

Readers also will enjoy an article about recent changes in our Tourism Studies curriculum designed to collaborate with and support our executive conferencing services and the new Convocation Center.

Finally, we are proud to provide a sampling of individual faculty accomplishments from the past year.

Last year in this space, I reported significant enrollment growth in the Eberly College in many science, technology, engineering-related and mathematics (STEM) programs. I am pleased to report that this trend has continued. Our current enrollment — about 2,500 undergraduate students — reflects 11 consecutive years of growth. Today, the Eberly College is by far the fastest growing of Cal U’s undergraduate Colleges.

What explains this rapid growth? I attribute it to an influx of energetic faculty who value our historic teaching mission, along with nationally accredited programs, recent upgrades to our science and technology facilities, and favorable national employment and salary trends in STEM-related career fields.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM education provides technical and communication skills, logical thinking, and the ability to solve problems effectively in teams — all skills that employers value.

These attributes provide our STEM graduates with about 70 percent higher starting salaries and median incomes than the national average.

They also have better employment opportunities, because demand in these occupations is growing at a greater rate (17 percent) than in other occupations (9.8 percent) in the national workforce.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue. On behalf of the Eberly College, I thank all who continue to support our efforts to improve the quality of our programs, faculty, facilities and students.

from

The

Dean

new name California University’s Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology program has been renamed the B.S. in Technology Management to better align with the current name of the program’s national accrediting agency, the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

2

Leonard A. Colelli, Dean Eberly College of Science and Technology

stuDents engage in research undergraduates take advantage of world-class opportunities tudents in the Eberly College of Science and Technology are conducting world-class research alongside professors and mentors thanks to the priority placed on undergraduate opportunities at California University of Pennsylvania.

“We absolutely push our students to pursue a research experience,” says Dr. Chad Kauffman, an associate professor in the meteorology program. “It is a great way to find out if research is something they want to pursue in post-graduate study.”

This summer and fall were busy for Cal U students and professors. These research projects illustrate the diverse opportunities available to Cal U students:

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Down to earth Dr. Sarah Meiss, associate professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, has worked with eight Cal U students over a three-year period at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory as part of the Faculty and Student Team (FaST) program.

FaST is offered by Berkeley Lab’s Center for Science and Engineering Education and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Each summer, teams of two or three Cal U students traveled to the state of California with Meiss. During a 10-week paid internship they assisted her with research on the microbial ecology of agricultural soil.

Deidre Pesognelli, who graduated in December 2010, plans to apply to graduate school next fall. She assisted Meiss last summer at the Berkeley Lab. “Our research was on par with a graduate project, and that is very reassuring,” she says.

Meiss is now a Berkeley Lab undergraduate faculty fellow, which allows her and her students to conduct research at the lab at any time.

Up in the air Jeffrey Sumey, an associate professor of applied engineering and technology, along with research assistant Nathan Wright, participated in NASA’s Marine Science Consortium at Wallops Island, Va. Their project involved developing and testing aerial data-gathering systems using kites.

The “Inexpensive Tethered Aerial Data Gathering Platform” is one of four NASA research projects within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Sumey secured $50,337 from NASA to bring the project to Cal U. “NASA wants to provide a lower-cost way to gather data on things like polar ice caps and sea-level rise,” Sumey says.

Under the guidance of Sumey and Cal U’s Dr. Tom Mueller, who provided expertise in geographic information systems, Wright was able to modify a computer on board the kite to provide light-spectrum data for NASA. Sumey and Wright, who is majoring in computer engineering technology, traveled to Wallops Island in September to conduct tests. Although this phase of the project ended in October, Sumey plans to apply for additional funding from NASA.

Lindsay Rice on a storm chase from a supercell near Topeka, Kansas.

Across the country Four senior meteorology majors headed west for the summer.

• Eric Beamesderfer completed research at the National Weather Center in Norman, Okla., one of 120 students selected to do so nationwide.

• Tim Lahmers did hydrologic research at the National Weather Service headquarters in Boulder, Colo. He received funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship Program.

• Dustin Snare interpreted satellite information at Colorado State University.

• Lindsay Rice studied atmospheric hazards at Western Kentucky University and was invited to be a storm chaser, as well.

The students will have an opportunity to present their research in January at the American Meteorological Society conference in New Orleans.

By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

Associate professor Jeffrey Sumey (left) and research assistant Nathan Wright bring their kites to Cal U.

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marcellus shale Drilling fuels geology program’s growth industry grant gives students hands-on experience he impact of gas drilling in the Marcellus shale is a widely debated subject. While educators and industry leaders discuss its pros and cons, at least one Cal U professor strives to remain neutral on the subject.

“I try to stay out of the Marcellus shale debate, because our program is winning on both sides of the industry,” says Dr. Kyle Fredrick, an associate professor in the Department of Earth Sciences.

“The growth of the geology program has been amazing over the last four years, and much of it can be attributed to the recent boom in gas drilling.”

Enrollment figures support his claim. In the past four years, the number of geology majors has nearly tripled, to 60.

Since natural gas drilling rigs have become familiar sights throughout the region, the role of the geologist has become more visible — on both sides of the debate.

“Geologists are needed for both resource exploitation and studying the environmental impacts of drilling,” Fredrick says. “This has ultimately created a lot of local job opportunities for our students.”

The drilling side of the oil and gas industry employs geologists to make site assessments, to plot locations for gas wells and to monitor potential hazards.

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Dr. Kyle Fredrick (center) talks with students Brian Nicholson (left) and Andrew Jinkens about the effect of a fallen tree on the Pike Run waterway.

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On the environmental side, energy firms hire geologists to create sediment control plans and assess sites for damage.

As the need for geologists continues to grow throughout the Marcellus shale play, the Earth Sciences Department is emphasizing hands-on experience to give Cal U students a competitive advantage in the job market.

Mining real-world data Less than a mile from campus, Pike Run sweeps past Rotary Park before emptying into the Monongahela River.

Although the small waterway is a popular fishing spot, abandoned coal mines, mine pools and old septic systems along its path have a negative influence on the watershed.

The stream provides the perfect opportunity for geology students to conduct research and gather data, just as professional geologists might do in the field. But until recently, a lack of equipment hindered those efforts.

Enter Dominion, one of the nation's largest producers and transporters of energy.

In September the company awarded Cal U a $30,000 education grant to develop a network of hydrologic instruments so students can gain experience with real-world data and analysis.

Using the instruments, students will conduct a short-term evaluation of the water quality of Pike Run and its associated tributaries.

rappelling robot looks at rocks

Touring a Cal U lab are (from left) Dr. Tom Wickham, chair of the Earth Sciences Department; James Mesloh, executive director of the Dominion Foundation; and Dr. Kyle Fredrick, of the geology program.

“The idea is to develop a monitoring network throughout the watershed, so we can see what is entering and exiting the stream,” Fredrick explains.

Students will be involved throughout the entire project. The hydrology class will help to lay out the monitoring grid, the geographic information systems (GIS) class will create a map of the grid, and the watershed evaluation class will use the data to study the flow and chemistry of the water.

Overall, Cal U geology students will have the opportunity to both collect and analyze meaningful, real-world data using state-of-the-art instruments.

“The process of taking raw information and trying to understand what it is telling you is critical,” says Fredrick. “That is something students will do every day at their future jobs.”

Connecting to careers “I believe the opportunity to conduct research at Cal U presents additional hands-on field work that would be attractive to potential employers,” says Andrew Jinkens, a junior geology major.

Like Jinkens, many Cal U students understand the importance of adding fieldwork to their resume as a step toward future employment. They also are making connections within the energy industry.

With more than 50 active members, the Geology Club at Cal U connects students to industry representatives at the local and national levels.

Geology students (from left) Nathan Polen and Brian Nicholson review data on water quality with Dr. Kyle Fredrick (right).

Club members present at national conferences, help local Boy Scouts obtain merit badges, judge competitions for the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Sciences, and take field trips throughout the year.

“What we are planning for the future of the Geology Club is something I believe will help put the Cal U geology program on the map,” says senior geology major Bryan Nicholson.

With an increased emphasis on research, a club that interacts with industry representatives and strong connections to local Marcellus shale jobs, the geology program is focused on guiding students toward successful careers.

“The most appealing thing is that the program is rapidly growing, but it still is small enough to remain personal,” says Jinkens.

“The facilities are new, the students and staff are motivated, and the more people become interested, the faster this program will continue to grow.”

By Jeff Bender, PR and Web writer at Cal U

What happens when geology students want to study rock formations on dangerous cliffs?

The y use a r obot built by Cal U students.

In a collaborative project between the geology and robotics programs at Cal U, students were tasked with creating a prototype robot that could scale steep ledges and capture close-up images of the Earth’s surface.

“We met with Dr. Kyle Fredrick of the Earth Sciences Department to develop specifications for what the robot needed to accomplish,” says Anthony Rodi, an assistant professor in the Department of Math, Science and Information Systems and the former director of the National Center for Robotics Engineering Technology Education.

“A lot of the robot parts were fabricated by our students, and the end result was great.”

The robot consists of a small video camera mounted on wheels. The wheels allow the remote-controlled robot to move up and down a rope suspended from the top of a rock formation. Geologists can stand on solid ground, yet collect images along the rock face.

The design has been a huge success.

Frederick uses the robot to teach his students, and he and Rodi showed it off to more than 18,000 geophysicists from around the world last year at the American Geophysical Union’s annual meeting in San Francisco.

Rodi says the real success comes when two unrelated areas, such as geology and robotics, find productive new ways to work together.

“We are always looking for ways to collaborate and keep projects studentcentered,” he says. “We are here for the students, and we should give them the most opportunities possible.”

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Tourism is the second-largest employer in Pennsylvania and the largest worldwide.

DR. SUSAN RYAN DIRECTOR, CAL U TOURISM RESEARCH CENTER

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Tourism curriculum reflects industry trends hen the World Tourism Organization (WTO) announced it would place an emphasis on responding to the tourism industry, Dr. Susan Ryan knew the Bachelor of Arts in Geography: Tourism Studies Concentration was in line to maintain its prestigious accreditation.

“Part of the renewal process looked at how our students transition into the industry,” says Ryan, an associate professor in the Department of Earth Sciences and director of the Cal U Tourism Research Center.

“It also focused on facilities we have available for our students, and we were able to show the opportunities they will have with our new campus development.”

The WTO rigorously regulates quality-assurance standards for education, training and research in the field of tourism.

Cal U’s program has been accredited by the WTO since 2005 — one of only three institutions in the United States and a handful worldwide to merit this elite distinction.

Because of the shift in the WTO’s focus, Ryan created new courses in 2010 designed to take advantaged of services that will be offered at the Cal U Convocation Center and at the Hampton Inn and Suites hotel due to open in fall 2012 at California Technology Park, just 2 miles from campus.

The nucleus of the curriculum now features studies in convention operations, hotels, resorts and lodging. Ryan also redeveloped a previous course focusing on hospitality industry operations.

“I felt these courses would reflect the development on campus and regionally with the new Convocation Center and hotel,” Ryan says.

“We now offer a curriculum that allows students to land careers in events and event planning, and they will be able to gain experience on campus with Cal U’s Office of Conference Services.”

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Ryan already is collaborating with several University departments to incorporate the new facilities into her program.

Juanita Timney, executive director of University Conference Services, spoke to students in the concentration about the executive conference center planned for the new Convocation Center. A certified meeting planner, Timney also outlined the skills needed to be successful in the industry.

University architect Douglas Philp spoke with students about the evolution of the Convocation Center’s building design.

“As student users, it affords them information and an initial opportunity for firsthand, critical observation of how these decisions affect the operation of a facility,” says Philp.

“This early experience can ultimately make them more interested and effective contributors to the renovation or construction of a facility in which they may be involved during their careers.”

Once the facilities are fully operational, Ryan hopes to have students conduct research both on and off campus.

In the past, students gained experience at other area hotels, but having nearby facilities will allow them to conduct research in guest interaction, managerial issues, and facility design and layout.

Until those opportunities develop, students are conducting tourism research for outside clients including the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency.

“Tourism is the second-largest employer in Pennsylvania and the largest worldwide,” Ryan says.

“Having the ability to collaborate with service departments on campus and regionally provides our students with experiences that many other universities cannot offer.”

By Jeff Bender, PR and Web writer at Cal U

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What’s New in the eberly college The faculty and staff in the eberly College of science and Technology have numerous individual achievements to share.

The Cal U meteorology program, in the Department of Earth Sciences, received an honorable mention at the annual Carnegie Science Center Awards. The program was recognized for its educational outreach, charity and student engagement events, including the annual StormFest program organized by Cal U students and presented at the science center, in Pittsburgh.

Dr. William Dieterle (Chemistry and Physics) presented a paper titled “Anomalies in Applications of Inkjet Printing in Microfluidic Device Fabrication” at the American Vacuum Society International Symposium and Exhibition.

Dr. Thomas Mueller (Earth Sciences) received a $5,750 Pennsylvania Space Grant to provide scholarships for students in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geology and/or Meteorology clubs.

Dr. Gregg Gould (Chemistry and Physics) received a $3,000 lab equipment enhancement grant from the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Paula Caffrey (Biological and Environmental Sciences) received a $5,618 Faculty Professional Development grant from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) for “Creating a Model of Chemotherapy Resistance in Small Cell Lung Cancer.”

Dr. Ismail Cole (Business and Economics) presented “Can Labor Productivity and Inflation Forecast Wages?” at the Conference of the Eastern Economic Association in New York City.

Dr. Sarah Meiss (Biological and Environmental Sciences) received a $7,976 PASSHE Faculty Professional Development grant to examine the “Microbial Ecology of Agricultural Soil.”

Dr. John Kallis and Dr. Mark Bronakowski (Applied Engineering and Technology) conducted a one-week workshop for robotics engineering teachers at the Community College of Baltimore County (Md.) as part of the National Science Foundation’s TIME (Technology and Innovation in Manufacturing and Engineering) Center.

Dr. David Argent (Biological and Environmental Sciences) received the Robert Vargo Award from the Faculty Professional Development Committee (FPDC) at Cal U. Dr. Min Li (Chemistry and Physics) received a $2,790 PASSHE Faculty Professional Development research grant for “What Are You Breathing: Characterization of Indoor Toxic Air Pollutants.”

Dr. Carol Bocetti (Biological and Environmental Sciences) received the FPDC Merit Award for Teaching.

Dr. Cheryl Hettman (Nursing) received the FPDC Merit Award for Service and Service Learning.

Dr. John Confer (Earth Sciences/Parks and Recreation) received the FPDC Merit Award for Research.

Dr. Kimberly Woznack (Chemistry and Physics) accepted an appointment as an associate to the Committee on Women Chemists of the American Chemical Society.

Dr. Jeff Magers (Professional Studies) was a head judge at the 20th annual Texas Hostage Negotiation Competition. The two-day event involved 26 police hostage negotiation teams, primarily from the western United States.

Clement P. Gigliotti ’96 received the 2011 Eberly College of Science and Technology’s Alumnus of the Year award. Gigliotti is a local entrepreneur and owner of Merit Contracting Inc., an industrial general contractor specializing in coal mines, chemical plants and steel mills. He also developed Top Box, a manufacturer of custom wooden containers; Dealer Depot, a products distribution center; and Westmoreland Waste Sanitary Landfill and County Hauling Corp.

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Field of dreams DeDiCATioN CeleBrATes PHilliPsBurG soCCer FACiliTY Both the men’s and women’s soccer teams have gotten off to a strong start this season, their first on the new field in Phillipsburg.

Speakers let the soccer balls fly after the dedication ceremony for the Phillipsburg Soccer Facility. Joining the celebration are (from left) Joe Reginella, of Reginella Construction; Dave Hohman, of architect Pennoni Associates Inc.; men’s soccer coach Dennis Laskey; University President Angelo Armenti, Jr.; women’s soccer coach Al Alvine; women’s team captain Kayla Klimasko; Nancy Pinardi, acting vice president for Student Affairs; and men's team captain Charles Dagnal.

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he dedication ceremony was brief, but the “oohs” and “ahs” went on all afternoon.

The crowd at Cal U’s new Phillipsburg Soccer Facility on Sept. 24 couldn’t take their eyes off the field — even when the nationally ranked Vulcan soccer squads weren’t busy kicking goals.

The $4.4 million soccer complex on Orchard Street, just three blocks from the main campus, gave the Family Weekend fans one more reason to cheer.

The facility includes a state-of-the-art artificial turf field, a programmable lighting system, a multi-sport electronic scoreboard, and renovated locker rooms, bleachers, press box, restrooms and concession stand.

“In Brazil, they call soccer ‘the beautiful game,’” University President Angelo Armenti, Jr. said during the dedication ceremony.

“Now we have a beautiful place for both our men and women to play. We believe that our students deserve not only a great education, but also a world-class campus.

“With this soccer facility, we’ve truly given them our best.” ■

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ALUMNI S P O T L I G H T

Wearing a red jacket decorated with pins, Lou Mazzoli ’63 keeps in step with the marching band from the Ohio State School for the Blind.

Founder takes pride in blind students’ band t makes you feel like you are someone, and it gives you a sense of accomplishment,” says high school student Boniface Womber in a video about the marching band at his school, the Ohio State School for the Blind.

Louis Mazzoli ’63, retired superintendent of the school, created the band with two faculty members in 2005 to give students like Boniface exactly that sense of achievement.

“Our students show courage and fortitude every time they march,” says Mazzoli, who now directs the school’s parent, teacher and staff foundation and raises funds for school programs. The K-12 school in Columbus serves students with visual impairments, including multiple disabilities.

Mazzoli is proud of the school’s students and all that the band has accomplished. This fall, ESPN.com featured the band in an online video and a profile by award-winning sports journalist Rick Reilly. In 2010, the band performed in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, Calif.

Mazzoli is quick to credit band director Dan Kelly and music director Carol Agler with developing the program for the school’s middle and high school students.

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20 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Yet it was Mazzoli who came up with the idea to challenge his students and support the new football team fielded by the Ohio State School for the Deaf, which shares a campus with the school for the blind.

The band began performing at football games, then at concerts and events throughout central Ohio.

ABC’s “Good Morning America” even filmed a segment about the band and its amazing musicians.

Mazzoli takes it all in stride. He has always expected great things from his students; he simply helps them find ways to accomplish their goals, he says.

The same might be said about his own goals.

Two years ago Mazzoli pledged to perform with Cal U’s band during Homecoming festivities — and he borrowed a tuba to make it happen.

“It was a lot of fun,” he says with a laugh.

More information about the Ohio State School for the Blind, including links to the ESPN.com video and Rick Reilly’s article about the marching band, are available at www.ossb.oh.gov.

Or visit www.calu.edu/news, click on “Cal U Review” and look for “As Seen in the Review.”

Growing nonprofit feeds the needy erek Fiorenza ’09 often reminds volunteers that the biggest differences are made through the smallest actions.

It’s a personal motto he’s seen proven time and again. Take Fiorenza’s Food for Friends, or F4 for short. Started in 2007 to serve a holiday meal in one Chester County shelter, his initiative is now a nonprofit organization that benefits thousands of people in more than a dozen Pennsylvania counties.

Fiorenza was a student at Villanova University when he began soliciting local catering companies for donations and organizing friends to help serve the holiday meal. He ramped up his efforts each year and soon began planning a 501(c)(3) organization to help the initiative grow.

Clearly Fiorenza isn’t one to take things slowly or to do things one at a time.

He finished his undergraduate studies in business and communications in three years, while playing football as a walk-on and serving as a volunteer

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organizer. Soon he began looking for It comes as no surprise to those who know the perfect fit for graduate studies. him that his goal is to take F4 national.

He found it at Cal U — as an M.B.A. He is well on his way after recently student and punter for the Vulcan organizing canned food collections football team. He says his connection for soup kitchens and food pantries with Coach Mike Conway sealed his in Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi commitment. and Florida and personally delivering “I feel that God brought us together,” some of the donations. says Fiorenza of Conway. “He is a man “I simply want to try to do my part to of faith and someone I admire deeply.” make the world a better place,” he says.

Soon Fiorenza was making a To learn more, visit www.f4service.org, or contribution on and off the field. contact Derek Fiorenza at 484-467-7899.

It wasn’t long before he was tutoring football and basketball players on campus and working as a graduate assistant.

On many weekends he traveled back to Philadelphia to work in the family insurance business.

Today Fiorenza works full time selling life insurance while continuing to expand Derek Fiorenza ’09 (second from left) helps to deliver canned goods. his nonprofit group.

recent immigrant creates opportunities lain Tamo ’06 recently spent a month in his native Cameroon encouraging individuals to start small businesses and looking at issues affecting the business atmosphere and quality of life in that African nation.

The trip took him far from his own business in Pittsburgh. But opening doors to economic opportunity for people in his homeland is equally near and dear to his heart.

Tamo knows about creating opportunity. He came to the United States in

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Alain Tamo ’06

1999 with an education and dreams of financial independence. Less than 10 years later he opened a successful business that’s already expanded once.

Tamo and his wife began Laptops ETC and a subsidiary, HandyComputerGuy, at the height of the economic uncertainty of 2008. They opened a storefront in Pittsburgh’s East Liberty community in part to merge his interests in repairing electronics, training people for new work, and helping nonprofit groups and small businesses.

Where others saw challenges during that time, Tamo saw opportunities.

He offered computer repairs at reasonable prices, with fast turn-around and a sliding scale for those of limited income or advanced age.

The business quickly filled a community need and gained hundreds of individuals, churches and businesses as clients. In 2009, Tamo moved it to a spacious retail location down the

street and added technical consulting in website development, networking, training and other services. Now he has clients throughout Pittsburgh.

If business ever slows, Tamo intends to jumpstart “Africa Quest.” He began the initiative several years ago as a way to help those of African descent to stay connected to their heritage and help other Americans understand differences among African cultures.

Clearly Tamo is a man of many talents. Another goal, he says, is to use his Cal U master’s degree in legal studies as a steppingstone to future education.

“Within a few years I want to begin a Ph.D. program in African studies, so I can teach here or back in my homeland,” he says.

Learn more about Alain Tamo’s business at www.thehandycomputerguy.com.

By Colleen C. Derda, a Pittsburgh-based writer

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CAMPUS C L I P S Professor accepts Berger Faculty Fellowship in education Dr. Diane Nettles, a professor in Cal U’s Department of Early, Middle and Special Education, has been chosen to receive the Jeff and Beverly Berger Faculty Fellowship in Education.

This endowed chair was created in 1998 by two generous donors, Jeff Berger ’71, ’74 and his wife, Beverly.

It recognizes educators in the College of Education and Human Services who make distinguished contributions to the improvement of teacher education and encourage new and innovative approaches to that field.

The fellowship provides an annual monetary award that the recipient may use to fund research, equipment, graduate assistants, travel for scholarly purposes and other responsibilities related to the position.

Nettles is the second faculty member to hold the fellowship. The inaugural recipient was Dr. Kevin Koury, now the dean of the College of Education and Human Services.

title examiners, insurance analysts, judicial-system administrators, think-tank researchers and more, PASSHE announced.

The jurisprudence program will be strongly allied with Cal U’s departments of Philosophy, History and Political Science, and Law and Public Policy.

Requirements will include a senior thesis and six credits of a foreign language.

The program also will stress opportunities for independent study, including study abroad and high-level research under faculty guidance.

Fulbright specialist to teach in united Arab emirates Dr. Aref Al-Khattar, a professor of criminology and director of Cal U’s graduate-level Applied Criminology program, will travel to the Middle East as a participant in the

Fulbright Specialist Program.

Al-Khattar has been selected to work with students and faculty at the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates.

He will give lectures and conduct seminars for graduate and undergraduate students, and he will work with Sharjah’s faculty in the Department of Sociology and its criminal justice track in the Master of Applied Sociology program.

“In general, Fulbright’s mission is to provide assistance to organizations, and that will be my focus,” Al-Khattar said.

He plans to depart for the UAE on Dec. 20.

The Fulbright Specialist Program is a short-term complement to the core Fulbright Scholar Program, the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government.

The Fulbright Specialist Program sends U.S. faculty and professionals abroad for two to six weeks to serve as expert consultants on curriculum, faculty development and institutional planning at overseas academic institutions.

Jurisprudence program debuts in fall 2012 Next fall, Cal U will become the first university in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) to offer a bachelor’s degree program in jurisprudence, the science and philosophy of law.

“Wherever we go today, we see corrosive corruption,” says program director Dr. Charles P. Nemeth, chair of the Professional Studies Department at Cal U. “Law is the centerpiece of a just society. More than ever, young people need to address issues such as ‘How does the law shape character?’ and ‘What is justice?’”

In addition to preparing students for law school or other post-baccalaureate studies, this academically rigorous program will offer “immediate employability in rising-demand careers” such as 22 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Kids Talk Democracy ii Ben Franklin Elementary School students Maeve Carei (left) and T’oymbae Eddings share their thoughts on freedom, democracy and the American Dream at a Constitution Day event Sept. 20 in Old Main Chapel. University President Angelo Armenti, Jr. introduced the panelists, 12 sixth-graders from Ben Franklin Elementary School in Uniontown, Pa. Moderator for the presentation was Dr. Holly Diehl, of the Department of Early, Middle and Special Education. The program was organized by the American Democracy Project, which videotaped a similar student panel last year. To see a video of the presentation, visit www.calu.edu/news, click on ”Cal U Review” and look for ”As Seen in the Review.”

Breaking ground University President Angelo Armenti, Jr. (second from left) digs in at groundbreaking ceremonies for a Hampton Inn and Suites hotel at California Technology Park, just 2 miles from campus.

The 84-room hotel is scheduled for completion in fall 2012. In his remarks at the ceremony, President Armenti said the hotel would be especially welcome as an overnight stop for families of prospective and current students, and it will complement the River’s Bend executive conference services offered at Cal U’s Convocation Center. Also at the groundbreaking (from left) are Richard Miller, president of Summit Development;, Anthony Payiavlas, president and CEO of AVI FoodSystems; and Washington County Commissioners Larry Maggi, Diana Irey Vaughan and Bracken Burns.

To see video from the groundbreaking ceremony, visit www/calu.edu/news, click on “Cal U Review” and look for “As Seen in the Review.”

Mission Day speaker: ‘learners will teach themselves’ A professor recognized internationally for his thesis that “education is a self-organizing system” delivered the keynote address Oct. 26 at Cal U’s 13th annual Mission Day. More than a decade ago, Dr. Sugata Mitra placed an Internet-connected computer behind a hole in a wall in a New Delhi slum. He quickly discovered that even without formal instruction, street children not only learned to use the technology, but also taught their peers.

Mitra discussed his findings — and Cal U’s innovative Cal U Fusion technology initiative — at Mission Day, an annual event devoted to exploring a single topic of interest to the campus community.

Classes were cancelled so students, faculty and staff could meet as equals to discuss Mitra’s notion that when educators stimulate curiosity and provide the appropriate resources, learners will drive their own education.

Mitra holds a doctorate in physics and is credited with more than 25 inventions in the area of cognitive science and educational technology. He is a professor of educational technology in the School of Education, Communication and Language Sciences at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom.

long-lost letter sparks worldwide interest

ABC News with Diane Sawyer online.

Major newspapers including the Washington Post, the Boston Globe, the Houston Chronicle and the San Francisco Examiner all published the story. Versions appeared in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Danish, Dutch, Korean and Chinese.

As it turned out, the letter-writer and Clark Moore had married, and divorced, decades ago. After speaking with Moore by phone, the University’s PR team mailed him a Cal U for Life T-shirt, along with his long-lost letter.

The U.S. Postal Service confirmed its delivery the following day. ■

The letter was delivered to the campus mailroom 53 years too late. Addressed to “Mr. Clark C. Moore, 219 Johnson Hall, C.S.T.C.,” the unsealed envelope carried a sweetheart’s message, four 1-cent stamps and a 1958 postmark.

Neither alumni records nor old yearbooks offered a clue to Moore’s current address, and the letter was signed only with a woman’s first name. In hopes of completing the delivery, the University’s public relations team shared the story with a local newspaper reporter.

He posted a brief item online — and from there the story caught fire.

Pittsburgh news media called within the hour, and the story aired on the evening news. Both the Associated Press and Reuters News Service picked it up, and the story “went viral” on the Internet — especially after Clark Moore, who now uses a Muslim name, phoned a Pittsburgh TV station to claim his overdue mail.

In all, 376 North American news outlets and 50 foreign news sources carried the story.

Cal U’s effort to deliver Mailroom supervisor Connie Morris shows off a letter that the letter was described on arrived at Cal U 53 years after it was postmarked, in 1958. the front page of CNN.com, the Huffington Post and

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PAYING IT F O R W A R D

pioneer ClASSeS Build lASting legACy After 50 years, alumni return to reminisce, boost scholarship fund fter 50 years filled with successful careers, marriages, children, grandchildren, vacations, birthdays, anniversaries and so much more, the Pioneer Class returns to the place where it all began — California University of Pennsylvania.

Each year, members of the class that graduated 50 years ago gather on campus during Alumni Weekend, the first weekend in June. They reminisce, catch up on one another’s lives, and acknowledge the role the University played in their successes over the years.

Events include the Pioneer Dinner, a 50th Class Reunion Reception, the Alumni Awards Luncheon and the President’s Gala.

“When alumni look back, they often say, ‘I thank Cal U so much for everything I have in my life,’” says Len Keller, who worked on the 1961 Pioneer Class committee.

“They credit the successful careers and family lives they have led to the education they received at Cal U.” As a result, each Pioneer Class cheerfully embraces Cal U for Life as members pay forward the successes they have achieved by donating to student scholarships.

So far, the Class of 1961 has given a total of more than $81,000 for a variety of uses throughout the University, including $44,000 for the Class of 1961 Scholarship.

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The Class of 1961 gathers at the Pioneer Dinner. They gave Cal U President Angelo Armenti, Jr. (center) a class gift of $41,635 to be used for student scholarships. Contributions to the scholarship fund are still being accepted.

Each class has until Dec. 31 of its reunion year to make additional gifts.

So far, more than 36 percent of the Class of 1961 has participated.

The ’61 class committee has been working all year to reconnect with classmates and encourage financial support for their alma mater.

“We decided to make individual calls,” says committee member Jane Starkey Long. “The fellas called the guys, and we called the girls.

“The personal connection really made a difference. When they’d hear my voice, they’d say, ‘Oh, my goodness, is this Jane?’ I called all over the country. It’s been 50 years, so people have spread out and moved on.”

Leaving a legacy is important to each Pioneer Class as members reflect on the past 50 years.

“Cal gave all of us so much,” Long says. “We all have been able to have such fulfilling careers, it’s almost an obligation to give back to help students who are struggling.

“You want to help them realize their dream. We all had dreams, Jane Starkey Long ’61 (left) presents a class gift of and we were able to realize them $41,635 to Cal U President Angelo Armenti, Jr.

24 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

thanks to Cal U.” Long, who majored in elementary education, was secretary of the junior class, president of Delta Zeta and on the Homecoming planning committee, among other activities at Cal U. One highlight of the Alumni Dinner was a table full of her keepsakes.

“I kept the number I held in the graduation line, the meal ticket card, my library card, dance programs, all kinds of stuff,” she recalls with a smile.

“I had a wonderful, wonderful college experience, and I made lifelong friends here.” ■

By Wendy Mackall, assistant communications director at Cal U

Members of the Class of 1961 who wish to add to this year’s total can mark their checks “Class of 1961 Scholarship” and send them to the Foundation for California University, P.O. Box 668, California, PA 15419.

Planning meetings are under way for the Pioneer Class of 1962. If you would like to be involved, contact the Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund at 724-938-4418.

SPORTS R O U N D U P

Higher ground THree woMeN quAliFY For ToP-level CoNTesTs

T

hree Cal U student-athletes are showcasing their talents in top-tier competitions.

Swimmer Melissa Gates is poised to compete for a spot on the U.S. Olympic swim team.

Before the start of the fall semester, she reached the 2012 Olympic Team Trial qualifying time in the 50-yard freestyle. Her speedy swim came at the USA Swimming Eastern Zone Super Section, held at Trees Pool in Pittsburgh.

The Olympic Team Trials will be held from June 25-July 2 in Omaha, Neb. The 2012 Olympic Games begin July 27 in London.

Gates, a five-time All-American, became Cal U’s first NCAA national champion in swimming last spring when she won the Division II 50-yard Freestyle National Championship.

Softball players Jillian Russell and Natalie Wideman are representing both Canada and Cal U at two of the world’s most prestigious softball events.

Russell, a senior, competed in the 2011 Pan American Games Oct. 7-24 in Guadalajara, Mexico. An All-American infielder from London, Ontario, she is a member of the Canadian National Senior Softball Team.

Wideman, a sophomore, will take the field at the International Softball Federation’s Junior Women’s World Softball Championships, set for Dec. 6-17 in Cape Town, South Africa. She is an all-conference catcher-infielder from Mississauga, Ontario, and a member of the Canadian Junior Women’s World Softball Championship team.

On the NFL roster Four former Vulcan football standouts found themselves on National Football League rosters this fall.

Joining the pros were cornerback Tommie Campbell, playing for the Tennessee Titans; receiver/special teams player Dominique Curry, in his second year with the St. Louis Rams; defensive back and return specialist Terrence Johnson, with the Indianapolis Colts;

Jillian Russell

Melissa Gates

and quarterback Josh Portis, with the Seattle Seahawks. A fifth former Vulcan, wide receiver Derrick Jones, was placed on the Oakland Raiders’ injured reserve unit.

Tommie Campbell

Dominique Curry

Terrence Johnson

Josh Portis

Vulcan extras Junior Maria Lopez finished tied for second and led the women’s golf team to a second-place finish at the PSAC championships. The men’s golf team, behind a third-place showing by senior Paul Babashanian, finished in fourth place. … Cal U’s women’s and men’s soccer teams were nationally ranked as high as second and ninth, respectively, earlier this season. Junior Carly Work recorded two hat tricks during the women’s soccer team’s first six games. … Men’s senior goalkeeper Charlie

Natalie Wideman

Dagnal was the PSAC’s first hockey Player of the Week after beginning the season with seven straight shutouts. …

Sophomore linebacker Brian Justice was named PSAC Defensive Player of the Week after making 11 tackles and a key interception in overtime as the Vulcan football team clinched its eighth straight winning season after a dramatic Homecoming win over Mercyhurst. …

The women’s volleyball team took off under first-year head coach Peter Letourneau, winning 23 of the team’s first 27 matches. The team led the PSAC-West as of Oct. 27. … Junior setter Kelly Fromknecht was the PSAC’s first volleyball Player of the Week. … Sophomore Aaron Dinzeo placed a team-high fifth at the PSAC Cross Country Championships. …

Cross country runner Tim Lahmers, who is majoring in earth sciences and mathematics, was the first recipient of the PSAC Champion Scholar Award.

A senior, he has a 4.0 grade-point average. … Redshirt sophomore Erin Kling, the 2009 PSAC Freshman of the Year who missed the 2010 season due to injury, was selected to the All-District II Women’s Track & Field/ Cross Country Second Team. … ■

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

For the latest vulcan sports information, visit www.calvulcans.com.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 25 ■

Seven nAmed to the CAl u AthletiC hAll oF FAme inductees include individual standouts, plus the 1968 football squad omecoming 2011 festivities began Oct. 21 when University President Angelo Armenti, Jr. inducted seven new members into the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame.

These members of the 17th Hall of Fame class increase the total number of honorees to 155.

H

Antoine Bagwell A Vulcan football running back in 2004 and 2005, Antoine Bagwell earned first-team recognition from the American Football Coaches Association and second-team All-American honors from the Associated Press in 2005.

In two years Bagwell rushed for 3,353 yards and scored 272 total points, with 41 rushing touchdowns and 45 overall touchdowns. His career rushing, touchdown and scoring totals still rank second in school history.

Bagwell scored a team record 25 touchdowns in 2005, when he helped the Vulcans win their first PSAC-West title in 21 years. He was selected as the PSAC-West Player of the Year for both of his seasons at Cal U. Last spring Bagwell was the leading receiver for the Ultimate Indoor Football League’s Johnstown Generals, with 51 receptions for 660 yards and 18 touchdowns.

26 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Honored at the 2011 Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame banquet were (front row, from left) Bill Lee ’67; Vernon Ross, who spoke on behalf of his father, the late Paul E. Ross ’37; Rick Kotarsky ’67; and Candice Pickens; and (back row, from left) Antoine Bagwell; President Angelo Armenti, Jr.; Megan Storck ’06; and Jack Zduriencik ’74.

Rich Kotarsky ’67 Rich “Tree” Kotarsky was a three-year starting center on the Vulcan basketball team from 1963-1967.

He finished his collegiate career with 1,067 points, the fourth highest total in school history at the time.

During his senior year, Kotarsky led the Vulcans to the program’s first of now 15 PSAC-West titles. He scored 30 or more points during three different games in 1966-1967, including 31 points in a win over Slippery Rock that clinched the division championship.

Kotarsky received NAIA All-American honors, as well as Associated Press All-State and first-team PSAC-West recognition in 1967.

He went on to enjoy a distinguished 36-year teaching career and was a longtime

basketball and softball official at all levels, from high school to NCAA Division I.

Bill Lee ’67 Bill Lee was Cal U’s starting quarterback from the end of his 1963 freshman season into 1966.

The 1965 Vulcan team ranked among the nation’s top 10 in passing offense. The following season Lee passed for 367 yards, then a school record, and he earned PSAC Player of the Week honors in a 27-20 home victory over Lock Haven.

At that time Lee ranked second in total offense among all NAIA players, but he suffered a season-ending separated shoulder in the next game.

Nevertheless, the Vulcans achieved three divisional winning seasons with Lee.

After graduating from Cal U, Lee officiated at high school football games for 28 years and enjoyed a successful career in business.

He now is in his 11th year as the mayor of Speers, Pa.

Candice Pickens Candice Pickens was a point guard for the men’s basketball team from 1992-1996.

He finished his collegiate career with 1,214 career points, 226 steals, 675 assists and a 71 percent shooting average from the foul line (442-621).

During his four years with the Vulcans, the team compiled a 98-24 record and a 42-6 PSAC-West mark, with four NCAA playoff appearances, four PSAC title game appearances, three NCAA Regional title game appearances, two PSAC championships and one NCAA II Final Four appearance, in 1996.

Pickens was named the Most Valuable Player of the 1995 and 1996 NCAA East Regional tourneys and the 1996 PSAC Tournament after averaging 19.3 points, 9.3 assists and 7.0 rebounds in three games. His 21 assists against Slippery Rock in 1995 remains a PSAC record.

Paul E. Ross ’37 A standout Vulcan football player and wrestler, the late Paul Ross was a faculty member in California’s former Health and Physical Education Department from 1957-1968, when he was appointed athletic director.

He served in that capacity until his retirement in 1976.

Ross restarted the wrestling program in 1957 and guided the team for 10 years, compiling a 66-45-5 cumulative record.

A Navy veteran, Ross also coached the men’s tennis team for five years.

Under his leadership, California athletics won PSAC team championships in football (1968) and men’s basketball (1970) and captured three men’s tennis state crowns (1968, 1971, 1972).

A member of the PSAC Wrestling Hall of Fame, Ross passed away in 1980.

Megan Storck ’06 A three-year starting point guard for the women’s basketball team, Megan Storck starred for the Vulcans from 2002-2006.

She will always be remembered for her three-point swish, tossed with 28.6 seconds left in Cal U’s 75-72 NCAA National Championship victory over Drury (Mo.) in 2004.

Storck finished her collegiate career with 1,409 points, 767 career assists, 359 steals and 160 three-point baskets.

Her career assists total and 285 assists in 2004 remain team and PSAC records.

During Storck’s career, the Vulcans compiled an amazing 120-14 cumulative record and 46-2 PSAC-West mark. The team won four consecutive division titles and NCAA tourney appearances, three conference titles, two consecutive Final Four showings, and the national championship.

She was a three-time all-conference pick, the 2003 division Rookie of the Year and the 2004 national tourney MVP.

Jack Zduriencik ’74 Jack Zduriencik was a two-year starting catcher for the Vulcan baseball team in 1972 and 1973 after serving as a junior varsity student coach in 1971.

A team captain, he received first-team, all-conference honors both seasons.

He was Cal’s second leading batter in 1972, with a .359 average.

After his junior year the Chicago White Sox signed Zduriencik, and he played two seasons of minor league ball.

In 1983 he began a 28-year Major League Baseball career in scouting and front office roles. This fall Zduriencik completed his third season as the executive vice president and general manager of baseball operations for the Seattle Mariners.

He was inducted into the Lawrence County Historical Society Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.

1968 Football Team The 1968 Vulcans made the program’s first of four PSAC championship game appearances.

The team concluded the ’68 season with a memorable 28-28 tie against heavily favored East Stroudsburg in a title game contested at California’s Booster Field. The Vulcans twice overcame 14-point deficits and were inside the Warriors’ 20 yard-line when the final quarter expired. Both teams were recognized as state champions.

The ’68 Vulcans had chalked up a perfect 5-0 record to win the PSAC-West championship.

Cal averaged 28 points per game in 1968, and the defense recorded 15 interceptions. ■

By Bruce Wald ’85, information writer at Cal U

Past Winners For information about previous Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame classes, visit the Hall of Fame section of the Cal athletics website at www.calvulcans.com.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 27 ■

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MAKE A TAX-FREE GIFT FROM YOUR TRADITIONAL IRA Jillian Russell

SPECIAL INTERNAL REVENUE S1ERVICE PROVISION APPLIES TO THOSE AGE 70 /2 AND OLDER Brice Meyers

H

ave you heard about the special IRS provision for taxpayers who have reached the age of 701⁄2?

Here is the important part again: You will not be required to pay federal income tax on the transferred amount (up to $100,000) given from your IRA directly to the Foundation for California University.

No, not the one that requires them to withdraw a minimum required distribution How do you, the generous donor, (MRD) from their traditional IRAs benefit? Let us count the ways: and then pay income tax on it.

There is another provision, and it offers some benefits if you are age 701⁄ 2 now or if you will reach that age by Dec. 31, 2011 — just a month away.

1

The IRS allows taxpayers age 70 ⁄ 2 now, or by the end of this year, to transfer as much as $100,000 to the Foundation for California University without paying any tax on that IRA withdrawal.

There are some conditions. The transfer must be paid by your IRA institution — a bank, broker, mutual fund or insurance company — from your account directly to the Foundation. You cannot receive the money, and the check delivered must be payable to the Foundation for California University of Pennsylvania.

No benefit can come to the giver, such as admissions, banquets or golf outings and the like.

28 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

1. Your gift from the IRA will count toward your minimum required distribution (MRD). You could meet that requirement and add nothing to your taxable income.

2. These special IRA withdrawals will not be included in your taxable income. Tax on Social Security income cannot increase, nor will the Alternative Minimum Tax be triggered by the transfer.

3. Non-itemizers benefit just as much as those who itemize their deductions.

4. Withdrawals reduce your taxable estate.

5. Any gift using untaxed savings is a smarter gift than paying the IRS first.

6. Some states may tax retirement income.

Several, including Pennsylvania, do not, but consult your professional advisers for details.

7. There are no minimum transfer amounts.

Spouses with separate IRA accounts can transfer up to $100,000 each.

8. Transfers from an inherited IRA qualify, if the account holder is 701⁄ 2 or older

by Dec. 31, 2011.

So if you want to make a gift from your IRA to benefit students and programs at Cal U, you can benefit tax-wise if any one of the following applies. Do you: • Not itemize deductions? (For most charitable gifts only itemizers have any income tax benefit — but not under this provision.)

• Itemize deductions, but find the advantages this year would be limited by the 50 percent-of-AGI restriction?

• Want to avoid tax on the MRD dollars that you must take from your IRA this year?

• Seek a swift, sure, simple and easy strategy for estate reduction?

Don’t wait. The Foundation’s tax identification number is 25-1540183.

Contact your IRA account manager or administrator and explain what you want to do.

If the Cal U Office of Planned Giving can be of assistance, contact Gordon Core, director of planned giving, at 724-938-5985 or core@calu.edu. ■

CAL U M I L E S T O N E S William Viola II ’69

60s Thomas Messner ’61 lives in

Avondale, Ariz.

Jane Kreinbrook Lauffer ’62, of

Ruffsdale, Pa., is the owner and director of Little Learner Preschool. She was married to the late Larry Lauffer ’63. At Cal U, she was a member of Gamma Theta Upsilon, Kappa Delta Pi, Phi Delta Kappa and Alpha Sigma Alpha. She also played basketball.

Lynn Angelelli ’65 was accepted

into The Pittsburgh Watercolor Society and South Hills Art League.

Jack C. Gray ’58, ’65 retired in

May 2011 at age 79. Jack played football for Cal U and went on to coach football and teach in New Castle, Pa. He then moved to Port Charlotte, Fla., and taught for 24 more years until retiring in May. He and his wife, Lianne, live in Punta Gorda, Fla. George Heckman ’68 is retired.

He and his wife, Teresa HorvathHeckman ’70, live in Cape Coral,

Fla. At Cal U, George was vice president of the senior class, vice president of Sigma Tau Gamma, co-chairman of the Committee on Social Activities and a member of Tribunal.

Dr. Donald Lee ’69 is retired as

superintendent of the Shaler Area School District, a position he held since 1997. He lives in Adams Township in Butler County, Pa., with his wife, Lorraine, who is a teacher in the Hampton Township School District. They have two grown children.

was recognized by the Senator John Heinz History Center, in Pittsburgh, Pa., for his pioneering of Mixed Martial Arts in Pennsylvania. The exhibit commemorates the first sanctioned Mixed Martial Arts bout and league in the United States, The Tough Guy Competition, which Viola collaborated to mastermind and promote in 1980. William is a member of the USA Karate Federation Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, and was named its 2003 Man of the Year. He also won the Lifetime Achievement Award from the USA Karate Federation and is included in Who’s Who in the Martial Arts.

Dr. Fred C. Adams Jr. ’76, a recently retired faculty member from Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus, is currently working on a book on the Tough Guy Competition and the origin of sanctioned mixed martial arts in Pennsylvania.

70s Joe Panarella ’70 is a technology

education instructor for the Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia. He and his wife, Liz, live in Frederick, Md.

Canon McMillan High School in June 2011. She has two sons and resides in Houston, Pa., with her husband, Paul.

Eric Bargar ’71 and Debra Wolfgang Bargar ’71 are living

in Mechanicsville, Md. Eric is a financial advisor at E Bargar Financial Advisors.

Joseph Waugh ’71 is director

of global manufacturing for TE Connectivity. He and his wife, Susan ’72, live in Kernersville, N.C. At Cal U he was a Student Congress representative.

Dennis Nixon ’72 is a retired teacher. He and his wife, Claire

’73, live in Virginia Beach, Va. At Cal U, Dennis played basketball, volleyball, football and softball.

He also was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Lee Vickers ’78 is senior director

of human resources for Siemens Corp. He lives in Winter Springs, Fla., with his wife, Susan.

80s

Tom Cox ’73 is in his first year

Beatrice Ferguson-Murphy ’83

as principal at Hohokam Middle School in Coolidge, Ariz. A native of Pennsylvania, he moved to Arizona in 1979. Tom is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

is an educator for Lackawanna County (Pa.) Children and Youth.

She and her husband, Antonio, live in Dunmore, Pa. At Cal U, she was a member of Student Government, the Black Student Union, Graduate Student Government, and the University Choir.

She also played rugby.

Phyllis Knupp Title Bednar ’71

was a special education teacher for 35 years. Phyllis retired from

James Griggs ’64, ’74, a retired

teacher from Conneaut Lake, Pa., has been recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership and excellence in industrial arts.

He taught high school industrial arts, mathematics, drafting and engineering for 37 years.

Dr. John K. Halfhill ’75 lives

Recently, members of the freshman class of 1964 met for dinner and an overnight stay at the home of Beverly Imperatore ’68. From left to right: Marie Adele Farenzena Dellapiazza ’68, Cyndee Jablonowski ’68, Bea Mazzocco Sieradzki ’68, Patty DeLost, Claudia Paradise Blake ’67 and Beverly Imperatore. The six ladies lived in the Green Street dorms while attending Cal U.

specialist for AHEDD. He and his wife, Angela Udovich-Ryan ’77, live in Hershey, Pa.

joined the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association as director of development.

David is vice president of the Foundation for California University of Pennsylvania.

formerly of Uniontown, Pa., has received the 2011 Educator of the Year award from the New Philadelphia (Ohio) School District.

Glassport, Pa.

Duane Ryan ’77 is an employment

Dr. David L. Amati ’70, ’72 has

Connie Williams Evans ’74, William D. Anderson ’70 lives in

since July. Kerrie enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 1954.

After serving in the Korean War, he was honorably discharged in September 1957. A member of American Legion Post 377 in California, Pa., Kerrie has held numerous post, district, department and national offices with the American Legion, and has been the department membership chairman for the past five years.

He is married to Jeanne, and they have two children, Kerrie Jr. ’83 and Natalie ’90, ’11.

in Scottdale, Pa., after retiring as superintendent of the Southmoreland School District.

John earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Cal U and completed his Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility program at the University, as well.

Kerrie Gill Sr. ’76, ’83 is the

department commander of the Pennsylvania American Legion, a one-year position he has held

Nancy Hazuka Vankirk ’83 is a

science teacher in the Washington (Pa.) School District. She and her husband, Christopher ’03, live in Scenery Hill, Pa. At Cal U Nancy was involved with fencing. She also was a “football girl,” was active with the Cal Times and was in “Fame.”

Harold Michael Ahern ’83 was

appointed marketing specialist and community liaison for The Woodward, an assisted living home in Keene, N.H. Harold earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and worked as a writer for the Cal Times and a literary magazine during his time at Cal U. Prior to joining The Woodward he spent 26 years working at The Keene Sentinel, a newspaper in southwestern New Hampshire, as promotions and market image coordinator, co-op advertising manager and an advertising sales executive. He lives in FALL FALL 2011 2011 CAL CAL U U REVIEW REVIEW 29 29 ■■

CALU M I L E S T O N E S Marlborough, Mass., with his wife, Jacquie, and has two sons, Matthew and Jack.

Sharon Busti Willison ’78, ’86

serves as chief of staff to state Sen. Tim Solobay. She and her husband, Bob, live in Rices Landing, Pa. Dr. Scott L. Tracy ’84, ’86 was

named an assistant professor and director of graduate counseling at Waynesburg University. He is a licensed professional counselor, a nationally certified counselor and a certified K-12 counselor.

He maintains a private practice in Uniontown, Pa. Scott is an expert in disaster mental health and the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in rescue workers.

Gene Steratore Jr. ’88, a 28-year

officiating veteran who currently serves as a referee in the National Football League, is serving as the Presidents’ Athletic Conference coordinator of football officiating in his role as head of the Tri-State Officials Association. He began officiating in 1983. He was hired by the NFL in 2003 and is beginning his ninth season. He also officiated college games for 15 years, beginning in 1987.

administration with an emphasis on computer-based systems management. Previously, she worked as a financial manager for Perryopolis Auto Auction and as an account assistant for Mendola Association in Charleroi, Pa. Her husband, Ron, works for Kiczan MFG in Versailles, Pa. They have been happily married since 1993. Their son, Matthew, 16, is a junior at Yough High School, and they live in Ruffsdale, Pa. Mary and Ron enjoy traveling, watching their son play sports, and spoiling their four basset hounds.

Nino Sapone ’92, director of

airport operations at Pittsburgh International Airport, was recently featured as a newsmaker in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. The American Association of Airport Executives has designated Nino as an accredited airport executive, a distinction held by fewer than 10 percent of all members of the Alexandria, Va.-based trade group. Recipients must pass a 180-question examination, fulfill a writing requirement and demonstrate a knowledge of airport management, business administration and transportation economics in an interview before an AAAE panel.

Vic Shandor ’92 was recently

90s Deborah (Mahaffey) Gottardi

’82, ’85, ’90 is a retired elementary school principal. She currently is employed as the director of a Parents Morning Out program called “First Steps.”

Tammy Mastowski Wolicki ’88,

’90 was awarded her Doctor of Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is the director of instruction, assessment and curriculum for the Greensburg Salem School District, in Greensburg, Pa. Tammy lives in Latrobe with her husband, John, and daughter, Lauren.

Wayne J. Miller Sr. ’91 is a retired

director of athletic development at Cal U. He lives in Largo, Fla., with his wife, Margaret ’05, past director of payroll at Cal U. Mary Shonts Smith ’91, originally from California, Pa., is an office manager for a company in Uniontown, Pa. She graduated from Cal U with a degree in business

30 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

hired as area superintendent serving Fulton County Schools in Atlanta. Vic has fulfilled all requirements for the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at Wingate University.

Dr. Edward Shepherd ’93 has

been hired as an assistant professor of education at Bethany College in West Virginia. He had been an assistant professor at East Tennessee State University.

Michael Pugliesi ’93, who majored

Melinda Ames ’98 is special

in industrial technology at Cal U, lives in Grindstone, Pa., with his wife, Ashley.

events coordinator for Waverly Community House, in Lackawanna County, which fosters educational, recreational and cultural opportunities in Waverly, Pa.

Bruce Penney ’93 is an electronics

technician living in Perkasie, Pa., in Bucks County. At Cal U, he was involved with WVCS (FM 91.9) and CUTV. Sonja Andrew Heidish ’94 lives

Brian Sutherland ’94 is the new

principal at Monessen (Pa.) High School. A native of Charleroi, Pa., he was a teacher and administrator in the Penn Hills (Pa.) School District for the past 16 years.

00s Petros Katsioloudis ’02, ’04 and Michael Grubb ’07 are members

of the executive officer team for the Council on Technology Teacher Education, an international professional organization.

Karen Menser ’04 of Somerset,

Mary Elizabeth Roley Roberts ’95

is director of behavioral health and rehabilitative services for Franklin Family Services. She lives in Chambersburg, Pa., with her husband, James.

John Carmichael ’97 is the new

principal at Vienna Elementary in the Fairfax (Va.) County Public Schools, having previously been a sixth-grade teacher and assistant elementary school principal.

Pa., a certified registered nurse practitioner, has joined the obstetrics and gynecology office of the Western Maryland Health System, in Cumberland, Md. She also is a licensed practical nursing instructor at the Somerset County Technology Center.

Elaine Logan Ondrish ’02, ’04

is an educator in the Charleroi Area School District. She and her husband, Michael, live in Charleroi, Pa.

Cathy Hess Palmer ’97 lives in

Adele Martin Packrone ’05 is

Canton, Ohio, with her husband, Doug.

an elementary Spanish teacher in the Peters Township (Pa.) School District. She and her husband, Joseph, live in Uniontown, Pa.

Dr. Matthew Lutz ’97,

a physician at Summa Western Reserve Hospital in northeastern Ohio, was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Regional ENT (ear, nose and throat) Leader.

Margret Cheverine Nottingham

’98 is a teacher in the Central Greene School District. She lives in Canonsburg, Pa.

Patti Kearns Mason ’93 has been

hired as high school principal in the Charleroi (Pa.) Area School District.

She was the associate principal in Fluvanna County, Va., serving eight years in the district’s administration.

She also taught for six years at Louisa County High School, in Virginia, where she was named Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2001.

living in Bronxville, N.Y.

in Washington, Pa.

Dana Byers Lewis ’93, of

North Huntingdon Township, Pa., is a manager at Financial Dimensions Inc.

Dawn Stevenson-Sims ’99 is

Marc Thornton ’98 is the new

principal of Jefferson Elementary School in the Mount Lebanon (Pa.) School District. A resident of Green Tree, Pa., Marc recently served as principal of West View Elementary in the North Hills School District, near Pittsburgh. He previously taught special education and was in charge of K-12 curriculum in the special education department at North Hills.

Becky Stone ’05 is a community

inclusion specialist for VIA of the Lehigh Valley. She lives in Allentown, Pa. At Cal U, Becky was a member of Sigma Kappa and Alpha Psi Omega.

Melissa Duckstein ’05 is a

statistician for the U.S. Census Bureau. She and her husband, John Suit Jr., live in Rockville, Md. At Cal U, she was a member of band, Greek life and the Honors Program.

Jon Brenenstuhl ’05 is head

boys and girls cross country coach at Buckeye Senior High School near Medina, Ohio.

Tracy Reick Bromberg ’05 is an

administrator for the Fairfax County (Va.) Public Schools. She and her husband, David, live in Leesburg, Va. At Cal U, Tracy was a member of Delta Zeta and was active with Habitat for Humanity and the Technology Education Association of California.

Jay Burbee ’05 was named head

Christine Kremer ’08 is a senior

Kevin Lowrie ’09, of Ashburn, Va.,

Clint Eury ’09 is the new Varsity

men’s soccer coach at Wake Tech Community College. He currently resides in Knightdale, N.C., with his wife, Julie, and twin children, Trevor and Kaylee.

specialist of quality investigations at Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. She lives in Morgantown, W.Va. At Cal U, she played women’s rugby and was involved in the work-study program.

is a meteorological field systems engineer for the National Weather Service headquarters. At Cal U, he was involved in concert, jazz and marching bands and was a member of the Meteorology Club.

Timothy DeFelice ’08 is a teacher

Marc Levin ’09 lives in

“S” and sports restricted giving officer for the Penn State Nittany Lion Club. Previously, Clint was project manager and senior recruitment and compensation specialist for Penn State’s Office of Human Resources. He and his wife, Jennifer, live in Bellefonte, Pa.

in the Prince William County (Va.) Schools. He lives in Manassas Park, Va.

Hatfield, Pa.

Geoff Mapp ’06 is a proposal/

capture manager for the Ambit Group. He and his wife, Natalee, live in Dulles, Va. Dr. Kerry Heckman ’06 is a

pharmacist at VA Western N.Y. Heathcare System.

Jamie Bogol ’08, of East Millsboro,

Pa., is a culinary professional for Red Lobster.

Jeffery Brennan ’07, a detective

in Coal Township, Pa., has graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. FBI director Robert Mueller presented Brennan with a graduation certificate during ceremonies at the academy earlier this year.

Jason Baribeau ’07 has been

named head men’s basketball coach at Blackburn College in Carlinville, Ill. Previously, he was the top assistant at Nebraska Wesleyan University. He and his wife, Lisa, live in Carlinville with their son, Caleb.

director of the South Hills School of Business and Technology in Philipsburg, Pa. He has 18 years of experience in a variety of positions with the Centre County (Pa.) Youth Service Bureau and the county Probation and Parole Department. Most recently, he was residential director of the Cresson Secure Treatment Unit for at-risk youth. He is married to Geneen, and they have two children.

finished his seventh year as a lifeguard at Rehoboth Beach and his second year as on-air weatherman for WMDT-TV, an ABC affiliate in Salisbury, Md.

Krystal Napolitano Houtz ’08

lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her husband, Justin ’07.

Lawrence Cardillo ’08 is an

operating engineer for the Allegheny County Department of Public Works. He and his wife, Emily, live in South Park, Pa. Jessica Kalka ’08 is an instructional

aide at Henry M. Gunn Senior High School in Palo Alto, Calif.

She lives in Mountain View, Calif.

Danielle Fields ’08 is in a new

Jeff Burris ’07 recently was named

Travis Michels ’09 recently

position as sales manager for the Richmond (Va.) Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Previously, she worked for the Bryan-College Station Convention and Visitors Bureau in College Station, Texas.

A.J. Hribal ’09, of Connellsville, Pa.,

recent won the overall men’s bodybuilding competition in the Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders’ Iron City Classic at Moon (Pa.) Middle School. He also is a personal trainer at the Center for Fitness and Health in Rostraver Township, Pa., an extension of Monongahela Valley Hospital.

10s April Staniszewski ’09, ’10 is

head swim coach at West Virginia Wesleyan College. She lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. At Cal U, she was a four-year member of the women’s swimming team.

Dale Froling ’10 lives in

Pittsburgh, Pa. Ashley Younger Underhill ’10

is a teacher and coach. She lives in Davie, Fla., with her husband, Tommy.

Jeff Michaels ’10 has been

Bill Marnell ’09 is a relationship

manager at Dollar Bank, FSB. He lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. At Cal U, he was on the men’s rugby team and was a member of the Student Government Association.

named director of athletics at Shippensburg University, where he was acting director of athletics for two years. He also was associate director of athletics for four years.

He lives in Shippensburg with his

Donnie Petko ’08 is now living

in Hollywood, Md. He is employed

by J.F. Taylor Inc. as an electrical engineer.

Bryan Tolle ’09 works for the

Christopher W. Gilson ’07 is a

meteorologist with Citadel Station Group WHBF-TV in Rock Island, Ill. Denise Bruno ’07 is a real estate

agent for Keller Williams in Bethel Park, Pa. She and her husband, Samuel Bruno Jr., live in Canonsburg, Pa. Alicia DuCote ’08 is an instructor

at Arkansas State University-Beebe.

She and her husband, Lee, live in Heber Springs, Ark. Andrea Haselhoff ’08 is an art

teacher for Hamlet Middle School and is self-employed as an art studio teacher. She lives in Hamlet, N.C.

West Virginia Department of Education as a Family, Career and Community Leaders of America state executive council consultant.

He lives in Fairmont, W.Va. At Cal U, he was a member of the Student Association Inc. Board of Directors, Student Cabinet, Student Government, the Seven Habits Club, University Choir and the Meteorology Club.

Savannah Smith ’09 is a

database coordinator for Chatham University. She lives in Pittsburgh, Pa. At Cal U, she was a member of the Vulcanettes, the Cal U Dance Team, the Public Relations Student Society of America and the PRactitioners, Cal U’s student-led PR firm.

What’s the buzz?

Emeritus professor Dr. Peter J. Belch ’64 shows off paper-wasp nests he donated to the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, which will add them to the display in the lobby of Frich Hall. Peter retired in 2006 after serving 37 years in the former Department of Special Education at Cal U. He and his wife, Donna ’63, recently moved from their home in Hopwood, Pa., to Colorado.

He collected three nests by climbing 30 feet into trees on his property, sawing tree limbs and carefully lowering each nest to the ground.

The delicate, papery nests do not survive the winter, and the wasps will not return to reuse them. Gladly accepting the nests was Lisa Gillis (left), a secretary for the biology department.

FALL FALL 2011 2011 CAL CAL U U REVIEW REVIEW 31 31 ■■

CALU M I L E S T O N E S wife, Carrie, and is the father of two sons, Douglas and Drew.

Lauren Metz ’10 works for

TeamPeople, a media staffing and production management firm. She lives in Alexandria, Va. Christopher Rau ’10 is a physical

education teacher and strength coach for Rutherford County (Tenn.) Schools. He lives in Nashville, Tenn.

Lauren Greif ’10 has been

added to the staff of the Stanford University women’s basketball team as special assistant to the coaches/video coordinator. Greif is currently working toward her master’s degree in kinesiology at San Jose State University with a concentration in sports psychology.

Laura Loeser ’10 is a graduate

student in natural resource management at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. She is presently studying black bear re-colonization strategies.

Kimberly Jackson ’10 recently

joined the Canonsburg, Pa., office of Visiting Angels as marketing liaison. Visiting Angels caregivers provide non-medical home care to individuals. The office is owned

by Valerie Candee ’09, and Jackie Bumpass ’01 is clinical services coordinator of the Canonsburg office.

Kathleen Poskie ’11 lives in

Indian Land, S.C. Jesse Killosky ’11, of Finleyville,

Pa., is an environmental scientist for URS Corp.

Robert Rains ’11 is an

environmental engineer intern for Haselden Construction LLC. He lives in Littleton, Colo. At Cal U he played intramural soccer, football, softball, basketball and pickleball.

He was active with Relay for Life and the billiards club. He also was a new student orientation leader.

Christina J. Yancosek Cregut ’92,

’11 is employed by West Penn Allegheny Health Systems/ Canonsburg General Hospital.

She and her husband, Robert, live in Washington, Pa. Stephen Heisler ’08, ’11 is

attending the Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine and

32 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

Surgery in Miami, Fla. At Cal U, he was president of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity and a member of the Student Activities Board and Internal Fraternal Council.

Stephen also completed “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” leadership training while attending Cal U. He recently became engaged to Allison Hammill ’11.

Chris Sefcheck ’97, ’11 has been

hired as principal of Frazier High School in the Frazier School District.

He has taught biology for two years at the Laurel Highland High School and previously high school biology in Las Vegas. Former principal Kelly Lombard ’01, ’06 will become the principal for the Frazier’s elementary schools.

Oktoberfest celebration in Canonsburg, Pa. The wedding was held on Sept. 18, 2011. The couple received the honor after submitting a winning essay. Jamie is finishing her degree in criminal justice at Cal U. Toyia Lewis ’05 of Washington,

Pa., and Michael Gabeletto of Nemacolin, Pa., were married May 21, 2011, at St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church.

They visited Cancun, Mexico, for their honeymoon and are living in Washington County, Pa. Gregory Joseph Davis and

Elizabeth Marie Gessner

were married recently at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish in Charleroi, Pa. Gregory is an associate professor of music and commercial music technology at Cal U. Elizabeth is an elementary music teacher in the Charleroi Area School District. They are living in Jefferson Hills, Pa. Amy Poli ’01, ’05 and Seth Caton

were married Oct. 9, 2010, at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Uniontown, Pa. Amy is a youth specialist and Seth is an outreach and recruitment specialist, both for the Private Industry Council

ON THE ROAD

WEDDINGS William Hanzely ’07, of DuBois,

Pa., and Dulcie Ann Swope, of Pittsburgh, Pa., were married April 16, 2011, at Mount Zion United Methodist Church in DuBois. William is a FedEx courier.

Dulcie is a physician assistant at UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh.

They visited Halcyon Beach, St. Lucia, for their honeymoon and are living in Pittsburgh.

Lacey Lemley ’10 and Chris Trenk

were married June 18, 2011, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Charleroi, Pa. Lacey works for Bolttech-Mannings in North Versailles, Pa. Chris works for the Love, Scherle and Bauer accounting firm in Pittsburgh, Pa. Following a honeymoon in Cancun, they are living in North Huntingdon Township, Pa. Steve Pettit ’99 and Tricia Anderson,

both of Perryopolis, Pa., were planning to be married July 23, 2011. Steve works for U.S. Steel.

Tricia works for Greenehorne & O’Mara, an engineering consulting firm.

Bobby Hammond ’99, of

Lewistown, Pa., and Carli VanScyoc, of Burnham, Pa., were planning to be married Aug. 13, 2011, at the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center at Penn State. Bobby works as a dispatcher for Landstar. Carli works for the Mifflin County School District in Lewistown.

Jamie Penderville, of McDonald, Pa., and Charles Harn, of Fredericktown, Pa., were the first couple ever to tie the knot during the annual

Tom Colelli ’84, ’85, an experienced hiker on the Appalachian Trail, introduced his brother, Len Colelli ’77, to the trail in July.

Len, dean of the Eberly College of Science and Technology, reports that his initial 4-mile hike took him through rough, rocky terrain at an elevation in excess of 4,300 feet. Here, Tom (left) and Len — who’s wearing a Cal U Chemistry T-shirt — take a break and use their arms to create the letters ‘C’ and ‘U,’ honoring their alma mater.

Nancyrose Peduzzi ’77 looks

through a copy of the Cal U Review while touring the amazing Terracotta Warriors excavation site in Xi’an, China.

Have you recently explored an exciting destination while dressed in Cal U apparel?

Send us a high-resolution digital image showing where you went and what you wore.

Be sure to include your name, class year(s), an e-mail address and the name of your destination.

Your photo may appear in a future edition of Milestones! Forward submissions to mackall@calu.edu; please put the word “Milestones” in the subject line.

of Westmoreland/ Fayette Inc. They took a wedding trip to Lancaster, Pa., and are now living in Uniontown.

administrative assistant at Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Somerset County, Pa. Cody works for Lytle Construction.

Kristopher Shumway ’06 and

Kelly Swiney ’08 and Julie Zoolkoski

Jessica Lightcap, both of Royersford, Pa., were married May 29, 2011, at the Loft at Limerick Golf Club.

Kristopher is a tennis instructor at Delaware Valley Tennis Academy in Bryn Mawr, Pa. Jessica is a physical therapist assistant at Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital in Malvern, Pa.

were married Dec. 4, 2010, in St. Bede’s Chapel on the campus of the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. Kelly is the head baseball coach at Allegheny College. Julie is the head field hockey coach at Slippery Rock University. Following a wedding trip to Australia and New Zealand, they are living in Meadville, Pa.

Lisa Beachy ’10 and Zachary

Myers were married May 21, 2011, at Faith Assembly of God in Uniontown, Pa. Lisa is a substitute teacher in the Albert Gallatin and Uniontown Area school districts.

Zachary works for Cumberland Coal Resources. They are living in Uniontown.

Andrea Jerome ’11, of Uniontown,

Matthew Pyle ’02 and Melissa

Barnes were married June 24, 2011, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Uniontown, Pa. Matthew is a technology education teacher and Melissa is an art education teacher, both at Southern Garrett High School in Oakland, Md. Following a honeymoon trip to Las Vegas, they are living in Oakland.

’03, both of Hiller, Pa., were married May 14, 2011, in St. John the Baptist Church in Perryopolis, Pa. Jeffrey is a shift manager at U.S. Steel. Erin is a second-grade teacher at Cardale Elementary School in the Brownsville (Pa.) Area School District. They visited Hawaii for their honeymoon and are living in Hiller.

Melissa Moskal ’07 and Adam

Thomas Kwasny ’04 and Lindsey

Wojcuich were married July 2, 2011, in Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, Pa. Melissa is a credit analyst for Bayer Corp.

Adam is a business process manager for CONSOL Energy. They took a honeymoon trip to Aruba and are living in Canonsburg, Pa.

Zidek were married June 25, 2011, in the Historic Church of St. Peter in Brownsville, Pa. Thomas works for Construction Union Local 286 of Brownsville. Lindsey is a dental hygienist. They visited Jamaica for their honeymoon and are living in California, Pa.

Adlin Joseph Strimel III ’08 and Erin Lee Hevia ’08, ’09 were mar-

Olivia Hunsberger ’07 and

ried July 9, 2011, in Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, Pa. Adlin is a technology teacher and assistant varsity football coach in the Fort LeBoeuf School District in Waterford, Pa. Erin is a special education/autism teacher with Intermediate Unit 5 in Erie, Pa. They visited Aruba for their honeymoon and are living in Erie.

Richard Guzur ’94 and Rebecca

Guianen were planning a September 2011 wedding in Erie, Pa. Richard graduated from Cal U with a degree in business administration with a concentration in human resources management.

Cody Colflesh ’11 and Brittany Tressler ’10 were married July 16,

2011, in Ursina Church of God in Confluence, Pa. Brittany is an

Pa., and Kevin Snyder Jr., of Smithfield, Pa., were married June 18, 2011. Andrea is a licensed physical therapist. They couple visited Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic for their honeymoon.

Jeffrey Pierotti ’09 and Erin Tisot

Michael Schlosser were married July 9, 2011. The couple resides in Davidsville, Pa. Olivia graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social work and is employed at Somerset (Pa.) Hospital.

Sheri Jordan ’91, ’94, ’05 and Jim

Garlick were married Sept. 10, 2011. They live in Rockwood, Pa. Sheri is an emotional support teacher with the West Greene School District.

ENGAGEMENTS

Enterprise. They are planning a 2013 wedding.

Brian David Fanning Jr. ’04 and

Amanda Lee Murphy are engaged.

Brian is head athletic trainer at Rutgers University in Newark, N.J. Amanda is an assistant/dispatcher for Stryker Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. They are planning a wedding in summer 2012.

Laura Lapacik ’08, of Canonsburg,

Pa., and Robert Hasson, of Washington, Pa., are planning a wedding in October 2012. Laura is a marketing assistant and customer service specialist at Blanc Printing Co., of Bridgeville, Pa. Robert is a driver/helper at Waste Management.

Adria Ciccone ’07 and Adam

Keenan are engaged. Adria, of Center Township, Pa., is a speech language pathologist. Adam, of Washington, Pa., is a technical support specialist in Comcast’s commercial division. They are planning a May 2012 wedding.

Jennifer Kupcheck ’08 and David Sturges ’09 are planning

to be married in Irwin, Pa., in August 2012. Jennifer is a mental health counselor at Mon Yough Community Services, and Dave is employed by Respironics as a technician.

Crystal Mann ’09 and Koury Lape

’09 are engaged to be married.

Crystal is pursuing a master’s degree in school counseling.

Koury is an assistant at the Multimedia Access Center at Cal U. They were both active in Greek Life. They plan to be married in May 2012.

ANNIVERSARIES

IN MEMORIAM Stephen John Arintok* Theodore “Tip” Berlinsky* Sylvia J. Povlish Bircsak ’40 William C. Brown, Jr. ’63 Richard Carman ’67 James C. Carter ’75 Ronald A. Copenhaver ’53 Anna Deane Ducar ’42 Thomas E. Duda ’72 Olga Toth Gazalie ’41 Mary Louise George ’63 Charles Robert “Bob” Hanyo ’64 Joanne Louise Hustava*, retired custodian Melanie V. Kelly ’73 Thomas A. Knight ’74, ’76, adjunct professor in superintendent letter of eligibility program Helen Hildebrand Long ’69 Rodney E. Lynn ’86 Dr. John Howard Lucy ’61, emeritus professor, Department of Sciences and Technology Andrew G. Onderko ’43 William Roberts Parkinson,* retired assistant dean of men Howard Phillips ’56 Anthony J. Rivetti ’48 Frances E. Seper ’43 Mildred Shrum,* former custodian Bernard Jerome “Bernie” Singer ’75 Robert S. Stahl ’36, member of the Robert M. Steele Society Mary Tarano*, retired C. LeRoy “Lee” Tempest ’77, ’81 Carl D. Totedo ’69 Dr. Allison E. Troy, former director of the counseling center and emeritus professor in the counseling/guidance department Karen Hanzely Roderick Tummons ’74 Joseph G. Uhlman ’62 Robert William White ’67 Mary Ann Gnagey Wockenfuss ’51 *No class year provided or on file

Frank P. ’49 and Shirley Savage Cava ’51 celebrated their 60th

wedding anniversary in June 2011 with a family holiday in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Frank is retired from PBI Industries, where he was a vice president, and Shirley is retired from the Beaver Area School District. They continue to live in Beaver, Pa.

Marta Gonzales Hodge ’09,

of Fayetteville, Pa., and Clayton Cummings, of Orrstown, Pa., are engaged to be married.

Marta is a ninth-grade teacher at Chambersburg (Pa.) Area Senior High School. Clayton works for

Bob ’61 and Evelyn Schaefer Komm ’60 of Oakdale, Pa.,

celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 1, 2011.

FALL 2011 CAL U REVIEW 33 ■

MILESTONES

REMEMBRANCES

Dr. William Sacco ’51 died July 20, 2011, at his home in Monkton, Md.

Former U.S. Rep. Frank Mascara ’72 died July 10, 2011. He was a member of the University’s Council of Trustees from 1973-1999 and one of only five individuals to be honored with Cal U’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He received an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from Cal U in May 1999.

The Belle Vernon native began his political career as the Washington County controller, then served as chairman of the Washington County Board of Commissioners from 1980 to 1994, when he was elected to Congress. A Democrat, he represented Pennsylvania’s 20th District through 2002.

Rep. Mascara is remembered as a strong advocate for the University, as well as for the Southpointe complex in Canonsburg, Pa., the Mon Valley Expressway and the urban maglev transit project proposed for Cal U. He last visited the University in spring 2009, during Cal Pride Weekend, when he accepted the University’s 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award.

William J. Clendaniel, who died June 29, 2011,

Thomas Philip Barnhart Stout, a longtime Washington County, Pa.,

businessman and a member of the Cal U Council of Trustees from the late 1970s through the late 1980s, died Aug. 8, 2011. He was the oldest of seven children and was passionate about politics, serving as a guiding force behind the career of his brother, former state Sen. J. Barry Stout of Bentleyville, Pa. In 1957, Thomas joined Atlas Railroad Construction Co., which his father had started in 1950.

He steered the company toward becoming a top national railroadcontracting firm. Eventually the business broadened into three firms — Stout Group, Atlas Services Corp., and Marta Track Constructors — that were involved in railroads, and land development for shopping malls and real estate. The T. Philip Stout Entrepreneurial Scholarship Fund at Cal U is awarded to a sophomore, junior or senior business major from Washington County who maintains at least a 3.0 grade-point average.

✃ JUST THE

FAX

In the early 1980s, William accepted the Illustrious Californian Award, now known as the W.S. Jackman Award of Distinction, from the Cal U Alumni Association. According to his obituary, William worked for many years at the Department of Defense Ballistic Research Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground, including as chief of the biophysics division from 1977-1979. He was an associate in the Department of Health Policy and Management at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and was the chief consultant for the American College of Surgeons Major Trauma Outcome Study. After retiring from government, he co-founded Tri-Analytics Inc., a medical data management, software and research company, and became well known for his work in developing the injury severity score and his work on mathematical modeling for trauma. His work earned him numerous awards, including being named an honorary fellow of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma in 1998.

Also in 1998, he co-founded Think Sharp, an educational company that developed innovative mathematical curriculum. He authored numerous books, textbooks and hundreds of articles in the area of mathematical research and trauma.

worked for more than 20 years as the assistant equipment manager and gymnasium supervisor at California University of Pennsylvania. He was inducted into the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. In addition to being responsible for the ordering, upkeep, and repairs of the athletic equipment and uniforms, William worked closely with the basketball, wrestling and baseball teams while assisting the late Ed LaCotta, a 2004 Hall of Fame inductee, during the football season. He also oversaw the operation of the Hamer pool and its lifeguards. He and his late wife, Fern, had five children, all of whom graduated or received a certificate from Cal U: Nancy Yakapovich ’81, William Clendaniel ’74, James Clendaniel ’85, Daniel Clendaniel ’78, and Thomas Clendaniel ’87, ’92, ’02.

Send your Milestones news or address changes by fax to 724-938-5932, by mail to Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 668, California, PA 15419, or by e-mail to alumni@calu.edu. Questions? Call 724-938-4418.

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Information will be published as space and deadlines allow. Please indicate on another sheet what activities or sports you participated in while you were a student. We welcome high-resolution electronic photographs. Please e-mail images to revieweditor@calu.edu; put the words “Milestones photo” on the subject line of your e-mail, and be sure to tell us your name, year of graduation and the identity of everyone in the picture. Please do not send computer printouts or low-resolution digital photos, as they will not reproduce well in this magazine.

CAREER SERVICES The Career Services Office at Cal U can help alumni with job searches and companies with recruiting.

Best of all, the services are free!

• Cal U graduates who are interested in one-on-one career and job-search planning may call alumni career counselor Bridgett Nobili at 724-938-4826 or e-mail nobili@calu.edu.

• Anyone who can identify job opportunities that might be suitable for Cal U students or alumni may contact employer development coordinator Sheana Malyszka at malyszka@ calu.edu.

Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni Association’s online community! Your personal ID number is on this magazine’s mailing label.

34 CAL U REVIEW FALL 2011 ■

GO CAL U! Shop the best selection of Vulcuns apparel and gifts at the Cal U Student Bookstore

Cal U Student Bookstore 724-938-4324 | www.calupa.bkstr.com 0358TG091211A

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NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Time to show your support Now is your chance to own a one-of-a-kind, limited edition neon wall clock created exclusively for the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.

And best of all, your purchase benefits Cal U students!

T

For each clock purchased, both the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and Image Time Inc. will make a donation to a Cal U scholarship fund.

The logo on each 20-inch wall clock is illuminated by a long-lasting neon tube. Each clock has a spun aluminum bezel and a sweep-style second hand that rotates smoothly around the face.

“As public support for higher education wanes, universities must look for alternate ways to help students,” says Craig Butzine, vice president for Marketing and University Relations at Cal U. “This three-way partnership puts Cal U’s entrepreneurial spirit to work on behalf of our most important customers — our students.”

his handsome timepiece is manufactured by Perryopolisbased Image Time Inc., whose founder and president is Bob McKeown ’80. Depicted on the clock face is the very first Penguins logo, created in 1967 and used on a jersey for the first time this year during the Winter Classic game.

For more information, and to purchase your limited edition clock, visit www.pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org.